Media personality and talk show host, Chinedu Ani, popularly known as Nedu, has shocked his fans by stepping down from The Honest Bunch Podcast on February 13, 2025.
He posted a press statement on his social media handles to announce his decision.
Nedu cited “unfounded accusations” and the toll on his peace of mind and family as reasons for stepping back.
It read, “In light of recent events, I have made the difficult decision to step away from the podcast. This is not a decision I take lightly, but one I believe is necessary—for my peace of mind, for my family, and for the integrity of the show itself. I have always been committed to honest conversations, but when those conversations lead to relentless attacks and misrepresentation, it becomes clear that stepping back is the best path forward.
“I sincerely hope this decision brings an end to the negativity surrounding my name and allows The Honest Bunch Podcast to continue thriving. I remain committed to fostering dialogue in ways that encourage meaningful engagement and growth, and I look forward to new opportunities that align with that vision.”
How it started
The controversy started after an episode of the Honest Bunch featuring a former Big Brother Naija contestant, Aderombi Martin, aka Deeone, went viral. During the conversation, Deeone alleged that social media personality, Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, was involved in same-sex relationships, and receiving money for sexual favours.
VDM didn’t take the allegations lightly. However, he didn’t go for Deeone but lambasted one of the hosts, Nedu; stating that he would rather “go for the fish (Nedu) than attack the worm (Deeone)”. He claimed that Nedu deliberately provided a platform for such allegations.
He shared their WhatsApp conversation, which revealed that Nedu had been trying to get him to appear on his podcast since 2024.
He claimed that Nedu decided to spoil his name through Deeone after his attempts to get close to him failed woefully.
VDM also claimed that the OAP had told him about his past affairs with various women who had graced his show in the past, including those he or others had slept with to give them better opportunities.
He went on to mention the names of two social media influencers; Saida Boj and Jojooflele, triggering another wave of comments online.
The saga continues
VDM further released WhatsApp screenshots allegedly showing Nedu’s attempts to bribe him with a car to come on the podcast. VDM also claimed that The Honest Bunch Podcast prioritised views over truth, with guests either paying to appear or being paid to stir controversy.
VDM further claimed that Nedu spoke ill of several female personalities, including best friends, Nons Miraj and Ashmusy.
VDM also alleged that Nedu described Saida BOJ as “cheap” and accused her of misleading young girls by exaggerating her charges. He called on Saida to clarify the claims, urging her to either confirm or refute them. Addressing Jojo Oflele, he suggested they collaborate to make the situation transparent and resolve any misunderstandings.
Jojooflele’s tearful denial of Nedu’s affair claims
After VDM made his claims on Instagram, Jojooflele posted a video of herself in tears, denying an affair with Nedu.
However, in a TikTok live chat, VDM apologised to Jojooflele for involving her in the controversy and clarified that the claims were based solely on what Nedu told him.
He later invited her to feature on another live chat, where he apologised to her, and made other claims regarding Nedu.
Saida Boj reacts
Another social media influencer, Sarah Idaji, aka Saida Boj, has also reacted to the controversies. In a new video, she asked VDM to prove his innocence rather than distract the public with his drama with Nedu.
Deeone rallies help for Nedu
Shortly after Nedu announced that he was stepping aside, Deeone took to Instagram, sweating profusely, and pleaded for public intervention. He claimed that, “Nedu is innocent” and that “VDM manipulated everything.” Deeone called on prominent Nigerians, including Davido, Don Jazzy and Peter Obi to rescue Nedu from mental distress.
More threats
Meanwhile, VDM threatened to expose more names and private details. In a video on social media, he insisted that Nedu’s exit was not by choice, insisting that he was sacked.
Deeone, on the other hand, vowed to continue defending Nedu, hinting at future TV interviews to “expose” VDM’s lies.
Reactions trail Nedu’s resignation
Media personality, Ossai Success called Nedu weak. He wrote, “Nedu is a weak man for resigning and I am disappointed. Everything Very Dark Man said is false in the eyes of the law. If I were Nedu, I wouldn’t let Very Dark Man go free. I would fight to the end. Very Dark Man’s statements violated Nedu’s privacy. Nedu should stand up for himself, especially now that he has resigned. It’s time to fight back.”