Court grants ‘BLord’ N20 million bail in impersonation case with VeryDarkMan

The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, on Friday admitted Linus Williams Ifejirika, popularly known as BLord, to a N20 million bail with two sureties in like sum in an alleged impersonation case.

Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia, in a ruling on his bail application, held that the sureties must be persons of reputable standing in society.

Mrs Ofili-Ajumogobia, who said granting bail is a discretionary power of the court, ordered BLord to deposit his international passport with the registrar.

The judge also cautioned him against making public statements about the case.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia adjourned the matter until April 27 for hearing.

Mr Ifejirika had been on remand at Kuje Correctional Centre since April 1.

The development followed his arraignment by the Nigerian police on six counts, bordering on alleged impersonation of social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

Mr Ifejirika, through his lawyer, anchored the bail application on constitutional provisions and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

His application was supported by a 10-paragraph affidavit.

The defendant had urged the court to exercise its discretion in his favour.

On his part, Mr Otse’s legal counsel withdrew a counter-affidavit previously filed in opposition to the bail application, indicating no further objection.

The dispute stems from Mr Otse’s allegations that Mr Ifejirika impersonated him, using his image and brand identity to promote business ventures without his consent.

(NAN)