National News – Nigerian crypto entrepreneur Linus Williams, popularly known as BLord, has reportedly been remanded in police custody after allegedly using the name, image, and brand of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), for business promotions without authorization.
The development became public after commentary platform VDM Empire shared claims that BLord was taken into custody following a dispute over alleged brand exploitation.
According to the report, the entrepreneur is expected to remain in detention for 26 days pending the next court hearing.
The controversy began when BLord allegedly used VDM’s identity and online influence to promote certain ventures, an action critics said misrepresented the activist’s brand.
Supporters of VeryDarkMan argued that the move could mislead followers and damage the activist’s reputation.
In a statement circulating on social media, BLord reportedly appealed to VDM, saying, “Vincent my bro, it hasn’t gotten to this, I was catching cruise with you,” in what appeared to be an attempt to explain or downplay the situation.
However, the appeal has not changed the legal process currently underway.
Sources familiar with the matter say authorities acted after warnings were allegedly issued earlier about the use of VDM’s face and name in promotional materials.
Despite those warnings, the dispute escalated, leading to the remand order while the case proceeds through the legal system.
The remand means BLord may spend the upcoming Easter period in custody before the next hearing date.
Observers say the situation highlights the growing importance of digital brand ownership and intellectual property rights in Nigeria’s online business space.
Legal analysts note that cases involving unauthorized use of personal brands or likeness—especially on social media—are becoming more frequent as influencers and public figures seek to protect their reputations and commercial partnerships.
Authorities have yet to release an official detailed statement about the charges, but the next court session is expected to determine whether BLord will remain in custody or be granted bail as the case continues.
