The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved bail for cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus Williams Ifejirika, popularly known as Blord, after days of uncertainty surrounding his detention.
The development was confirmed by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who revealed that the court granted bail on self-recognition. As part of the conditions, Blord is required to submit his international passport.
Sowore, who was present during the proceedings, had earlier expressed cautious optimism ahead of the ruling, noting the significance of the hearing.
The case has drawn attention due to allegations involving the Nigeria Police Force, particularly officers attached to the National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC) in Abuja. Some officers have been accused of misconduct and abuse of authority in handling Blord’s detention.
Reports previously suggested that certain officers allegedly collaborated with social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, to leak a video of Blord in custody.
According to sources, the footage was allegedly shared to publicly embarrass the detained businessman. It was further claimed that the video may have been staged, showing Blord in a distressed state after being abruptly awakened in his cell.
Additional allegations pointed to possible coordination between some NCCC officials and the activist, with claims that the incident was driven by personal grievances.
However, the situation reportedly shifted when the court declined to remand Blord at the NCCC facility, instead ordering his transfer to the Kuje Correctional Centre. This move is said to have disrupted any alleged plans tied to his detention at the cybercrime unit.
Witnesses also alleged that VeryDarkMan followed the vehicle transporting Blord to Kuje, livestreaming the journey and making remarks about the situation.
The case continues to generate public interest, with concerns being raised about due process, detainee rights, and the conduct of law enforcement officials.
- Sahara reporters