Nigerian Crypto Entrepreneur Blord Granted Bail After Weeks in Custody Over Identity Theft Allegations
Abuja, Nigeria — Prominent cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus “Blord” Ifejirika has been released on bail after spending weeks in detention over allegations of criminal conspiracy, impersonation, and unauthorized use of activist Martins “VeryDarkMan” Otse’s identity.
The Federal High Court in Abuja granted Blord bail on Friday, April 26, following an application by human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore, who condemned the prolonged detention as an abuse of judicial power.
Court Orders Strict Bail Conditions
Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia approved Blord’s release on self-recognition but imposed stringent conditions, including the surrender of his international passport. The 28-year-old businessman must also provide two sureties of “good public standing” and is barred from making public statements about the case.
Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and a vocal advocate for Blord’s release, confirmed the bail approval on his Facebook page. He criticized the Nigerian legal system for allegedly weaponizing detention to intimidate citizens.
Legal Battle Takes Unexpected Turn
The case took a surprising twist when VeryDarkMan’s (VDM) lawyer withdrew his opposition to Blord’s bail application during the hearing. The defense counsel, Abubakar Marshal, indicated that both parties were exploring an out-of-court settlement.
The dispute between Blord and VDM dates back to October 2025, when the crypto entrepreneur faced backlash for allegedly selling refurbished iPhones as premium models. VDM accused him of misleading customers, sparking a public feud.
Tensions escalated in January when Blord launched the “Ratel” app, a digital platform for purchasing gift cards and cryptocurrency services. The name clashed with VDM’s “Ratel Movement,” a social activism group, leading to accusations of identity theft.
What’s Next?
With bail secured, Blord’s legal team is expected to negotiate a resolution with VDM’s camp. Observers suggest the case highlights growing tensions between Nigeria’s tech entrepreneurs and social activists over branding and consumer rights.
The next court hearing is scheduled for late May, where further developments in the settlement talks will be reviewed.
— Reported by Nexio News
