The bail proceedings involving Nigerian cryptocurrency entrepreneur and founder of Blord Group, Linus Williams Ifejirika, have taken an uncertain turn at the Federal High Court in Abuja following unexpected developments.
Earlier, the police had applied to withdraw the counter-affidavit they filed in opposition to B-Lord’s bail request—a move that would typically clear the way for a prompt hearing. However, proceedings could not go ahead as the presiding judge was reportedly absent from court.
Sources later revealed that despite the police stepping back from contesting the bail, the matter has stalled because the judge expected to hear the application has not been reachable. Observers noted that what should have been a straightforward bail consideration has instead been delayed, creating uncertainty around the process.
The situation has raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the judicial system, with questions emerging over whether the delay is due to administrative issues or possible interference behind the scenes. Critics argue that such delays, especially after the prosecution weakens its position, risk undermining the fairness of the legal process.
B-Lord’s legal team had earlier sought an expedited hearing after he was remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre. In a letter dated April 2, 2026, his lawyer, Chukwudi Chikelue, appealed to the Chief Judge to assign a vacation judge to urgently hear the bail application.
The entrepreneur was arraigned on April 1 before Justice R.N. Ofili-Ajumogobia in a case brought by the Nigeria Police Force. Although a bail application was immediately filed, it was not heard, and the case was adjourned to April 27, 2026, for trial, leading to his remand for 26 days.
He is facing allegations of criminal conspiracy, impersonation, and unauthorised use of another person’s identity. The charges stem from a petition by social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, who accused him of using his name and image without consent for promotional purposes.
Otse alleged that B-Lord forged documents, created promotional materials bearing his image, and falsely claimed a multimillion-naira endorsement deal. He also stated that B-Lord used his identity in advertising campaigns, including billboards and flyers, without approval.
The influencer denied all claims of any agreement, emphasising that he does not engage in promotional deals and had previously turned down endorsement offers worth hundreds of millions of naira in order to maintain his brand integrity.