VDM Apologises After Mid-Air Clash With Mr Jollof Disrupts Asaba–Lagos Flight

Social media personality Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has apologised to Nigerians after an in-flight altercation with comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, widely known as Mr Jollof, caused delays and chaos on a United Nigeria Airlines flight from Asaba to Lagos. The incident, which was captured on video by shocked passengers, has dominated online discussions and sparked debates about celebrity conduct in public spaces.

The confrontation occurred shortly before takeoff, forcing airline staff and passengers to intervene as the two men exchanged heated words that escalated into physical contact. According to eyewitnesses, the clash momentarily halted flight preparations and left many passengers visibly distressed.

In a video posted on Instagram on Tuesday, VDM expressed deep regret and took responsibility for the disruption.
“I would really like to apologise for what happened yesterday on the United Nigerian Airlines. What happened yesterday was not supposed to happen, and I will take full responsibility for it,” he said.

The tension between VDM and Mr Jollof is not new. Both men, known for their outspoken personalities and controversial commentary on social issues, have clashed repeatedly on social media in recent months. Their disagreements, often fuelled by online call-outs, political commentary, and personality-driven feuds, have built a visible rivalry that many fans believed would eventually escalate beyond online exchanges.

What started as verbal jabs about political endorsements and authenticity in activism quickly grew into a bitter exchange of insults. VDM, known for his aggressive advocacy style and blunt delivery, frequently criticised Mr Jollof’s alleged inconsistency, while Mr Jollof fired back with personal remarks and public mocking videos aimed at VDM.

Industry observers say the clash reflects a broader trend where social media conflicts among influencers spill into real-life confrontations, amplifying controversies and shaping public discourse around celebrity behaviour.

On Monday, both personalities unexpectedly found themselves on the same Asaba–Lagos flight. Passengers say tension built almost immediately after Mr Jollof boarded and spotted VDM. An exchange of words soon erupted, drawing attention across the plane.

Video footage circulating online shows passengers attempting to restrain the two men as their argument escalated into a brief scuffle. Cabin crew reportedly stepped in to restore order, causing takeoff to be delayed as the situation was brought under control.

United Nigeria Airlines has not yet issued a formal statement on the incident, but aviation experts note that such disruptions are taken seriously due to safety implications and the strict regulations governing conduct on board flights.

Following the widespread backlash and criticism from fans and industry figures, VDM released a remorseful video.
“The incident was unnecessary. It should not have happened,” he admitted. He also acknowledged the inconvenience caused to passengers who were simply trying to travel peacefully.

His apology has drawn mixed reactions. While some Nigerians praised him for acknowledging his wrongdoing, others argued that both men should be sanctioned to discourage similar behaviour in the future. Many expressed disappointment, saying influencers with large followings should exercise restraint and set better examples.

Several entertainers and influencers weighed in on the incident, urging both parties to put their differences aside. Some described the clash as “embarrassing” and “avoidable,” stressing that celebrities must be mindful of how their actions reflect on the entertainment industry.

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Social media platforms have been flooded with memes, reactions, and commentary, with many users criticising the growing trend of online beefs manifesting in public brawls. Critics say such behaviour undermines professionalism and reinforces negative stereotypes about Nigerian influencers.

While VDM has apologised, Mr Jollof has yet to issue a formal response. It remains unclear whether the airline or aviation authorities will take disciplinary action against either party. Legal analysts say both men could face penalties if the incident is deemed to have violated aviation safety regulations.

As Nigerians continue debating the clash, the incident serves as a reminder of the increasingly thin line between online drama and real-world consequences. For now, VDM’s public apology may help calm tensions, but the episode is likely to remain a talking point in the entertainment space for weeks to come.