A Nigerian cryptocurrency entrepreneur, Linus Williams Ifejirika, popularly known as Blord, has been granted bail after spending several weeks in detention at Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations of impersonation.
Blord had been in custody since April 1 following his remand by the court pending further proceedings in a case linked to the alleged impersonation of social media commentator Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan.
The development was made public by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who disclosed the outcome of the court proceedings in a statement shared on his official Facebook page on Friday.
According to Sowore, the bail was granted by the Federal High Court in Abuja after the entrepreneur was arraigned before the court. He stated that the court approved bail on self-recognition but imposed certain conditions.
He noted that as part of the bail terms, Blord is required to deposit his international passport with the court authorities, effectively restricting his ability to travel outside the country while the case is ongoing.
Blord’s detention had drawn attention in recent weeks, particularly within online communities, given his prominence in Nigeria’s cryptocurrency space and the nature of the allegations against him.
The case centres on claims that he impersonated VeryDarkMan, a controversial social media personality known for his outspoken commentary on public issues. Details of the alleged impersonation and the circumstances surrounding it are expected to be examined further as the trial progresses.
With the granting of bail, Blord is expected to remain within the jurisdiction of the court and comply fully with all conditions pending the continuation of legal proceedings.
The matter is still before the court, and further hearings are anticipated as both the prosecution and defence prepare to present their cases.
