Celebrity Nigerian cryptocurrency entrepreneur, Linus Williams Ifejirika, widely recognized as Blord, has officially trademarked the name ‘Ratel’ and subsequently issued a cease and desist letter to social media personality VeryDarkMan. This significant development, impacting the digital and celebrity landscape, means VeryDarkMan can no longer use the name ‘Ratel’ without Blord’s express permission. The move by Blord, a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency space, establishes his exclusive rights to the brand name, setting a new precedent for intellectual property within influencer circles.
The directive was made public through Blord’s Instagram page, where he shared his decision to protect his brand. In a statement conveyed via his Instagram story, Blord clarified that any future use of ‘Ratel’ by VeryDarkMan is contingent upon obtaining his approval. “I have directed my SAN to issue a cease and desist to VDM to stop using my brand name ‘Ratel’. He will have to get an approval from me henceforth before using that name Ratel,” Blord stated.
What is a cease and desist letter and why is it important in trademark disputes? A cease and desist letter is a formal demand from one party to another, requesting them to stop an infringing activity. In trademark cases, it signals an intent to protect brand identity and prevent unauthorized use of registered names or logos.
This legal action arises from an ongoing public dispute between Blord and VeryDarkMan, which began in October 2025. The conflict escalated when VeryDarkMan, a vocal social media critic, traveled to China. During his trip, he raised accusations of business fraud and inflated pricing against Blord, particularly concerning modified gadgets. The situation intensified when VeryDarkMan reportedly filed a petition with the police to investigate Blord’s business practices.
VeryDarkMan had previously adopted ‘Ratel’ as the recognized moniker for his dedicated online supporters. The trademarking of this name by Blord directly challenges this established association and creates a legal hurdle for VeryDarkMan’s community branding efforts. This situation highlights the growing importance of understanding intellectual property rights, especially for public figures and businesses operating online.
How does trademarking a brand name protect a business? Trademarking a brand name provides legal protection against unauthorized use by others. It grants the owner exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with their goods or services, preventing competitors from creating confusion among consumers and safeguarding the brand’s reputation and market share.
The implications of Blord’s trademark extend beyond this immediate dispute. It serves as a stark reminder for content creators and entrepreneurs to be vigilant about protecting their intellectual property. The digital age offers vast opportunities but also presents unique challenges in safeguarding brand identity.
This legal maneuver by Blord is a strategic move to assert control over his brand assets. The cryptocurrency entrepreneur’s proactive approach to securing his brand name underscores the value placed on intellectual property in today’s competitive market. The ongoing saga between Blord and VeryDarkMan continues to capture significant attention on social media platforms.
Why is intellectual property important for influencers? Intellectual property is crucial for influencers as it protects their brand identity, content, and creative works from unauthorized use or imitation. Securing trademarks and copyrights allows them to monetize their influence effectively and prevent others from profiting from their hard work and established reputation.
The cease and desist letter is a formal legal communication, and its impact can range from immediate compliance to protracted legal battles. The public nature of this dispute ensures widespread awareness of the actions taken by both parties.
As the situation unfolds, the Nigerian legal framework surrounding intellectual property and its application to online personalities will likely be a focal point. The case of Blord and VeryDarkMan brings these issues to the forefront of public discussion.
What is the difference between a trademark and a copyright? A trademark protects brand names, logos, and slogans used to identify and distinguish goods or services, while copyright protects original works of authorship, such as literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works.
This legal action emphasizes the need for clear understanding and respect for intellectual property rights in the digital realm. The consequences for ignoring such legal directives can be severe, potentially leading to significant financial penalties and reputational damage.
The business community, particularly those in the digital and cryptocurrency sectors, will be closely watching how this situation resolves. It sets a precedent for how celebrity brands and online monikers are protected.
How can individuals protect their online brand names? Individuals can protect their online brand names by conducting thorough trademark searches, registering their trademarks with the relevant authorities, and actively monitoring for any infringing uses. Legal counsel can provide guidance on the best strategies for protection.
The resolution of this dispute will offer further insights into the evolving landscape of brand protection in Nigeria and beyond, particularly for prominent figures in the online space and the burgeoning cryptocurrency industry.
Best Ratel for beginners in 2026 will likely involve understanding the legal ramifications of brand name usage. The legal battles surrounding brand names like ‘Ratel’ underscore the importance of due diligence for any new venture. As the digital economy grows, so does the complexity of brand protection, making professional guidance essential for entrepreneurs.
