Social media activist Verydarkman (VDM) has sparked fresh controversy online after boldly claiming ownership of the popular phrase “Don’t Play,” alleging that it is officially trademarked under his name.
The claim comes amid his ongoing online clash with Wizkid, following debates over the singer’s comment comparing himself to Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Verydarkman Accuses Wizkid of Using His Trademarked Phrase
In a now-viral video circulating on social media, Verydarkman alleged that Wizkid sampled the phrase “Don’t Play” without his permission, insisting that people often misunderstand what can legally be sampled.
According to him, sampling is not limited to music alone, as words and phrases can also be protected under trademark law.
VDM further argued that the phrase has grown so influential that other top artistes, including Kizz Daniel, have also used it — proof, he says, of its popularity and relevance.
VDM Takes Swipe at Wizkid FC
The activist didn’t stop there. He also fired shots at Wizkid’s fanbase (Wizkid FC), daring them to “grow stronger” before taking him on.
Boasting about the strength of his supporters, the Ratel movement, Verydarkman described them as a powerful community of “nation builders” who cannot be intimidated.
What Verydarkman Said
He said in part:
“Na me get am, look am. I use close to a million naira take do my trademark. All those names — VDM, Verydarkman — I don trademark am since. So yes, na me get ‘Don’t Play’.
Wizkid sample me. While we think say na only musicians Wizkid dey sample, we never know say he sample my word, and I trademarked it.
For you to know how big ‘Don’t Play’ be, even Kizz Daniel use am.
Wizkid FC, make una join the fanbase of other celebs wey I don call out before. When una don big well well, then make una come for me. Una still no big pass Ratel movement. Na we be the nation builders.”
Mixed Reactions Online
The claims have since triggered mixed reactions, with many Nigerians questioning the legality of trademarking common phrases, while others applauded Verydarkman’s confidence and boldness.
👉 Watch the viral video below…
I am the owner of the word “don’t play,” so Wizkid and Kizz Daniel sampled me because I trademarked it! 😳🙆🏽♂️
——- Verydarkman Says pic.twitter.com/5U3TfLrxS9
— Viral Willy (@ViralWilly) January 24, 2026
