Lawyer Explains Why VDM Can Still Use ‘Ratel’ Despite B-Lord’s Trademark
A legal expert, Rockson Igelige, has clarified the ongoing controversy over the use of the name “Ratel” following the launch of a new mobile application by entrepreneur Linus “B-Lord” Ifejika. The announcement has reignited a longstanding tension between B-Lord and activist Martins Vincent “VeryDarkMan (VDM)” Otse.
The dispute dates back to October 2025, after B-Lord advertised an “iPhone XR converted to an iPhone 17 Pro Max,” sold at a premium price. VDM publicly accused the businessman of misleading Nigerians and warned the public against patronising his products. The disagreement appeared to have faded until B-Lord launched the “Ratel” app, which allows users to purchase gift cards, PlayStation products, and digital funds using naira or cryptocurrency.
Following the app launch, many social media users assumed that VDM could no longer use the “Ratel” name due to B-Lord’s trademark. However, lawyer Igelige dismissed these claims, explaining that trademark law accommodates multiple uses of the same name across different business classes.
“You see, the trademark can still accommodate both VeryDarkMan and B-Lord. They are not in the same line of business. The trademark has about 40 classes, and VeryDarkMan won’t fall into entertainment, and B-Lord won’t fall into car products. So they are two different words. The trademark can accommodate them,” Igelige said.
He further explained that B-Lord and VDM operate in different sectors, meaning neither can prevent the other from using the “Ratel” name. Legal action could only occur if both parties were operating within the same trademark class.
“In addition to classes of goods and services, trademarks are classified into 45 classes. If B-Lord trademarks ‘Ratel’ in one class and VeryDarkMan operates in a different class, they have no conflict. The only restriction is if they operate in the same class with the same type of products,” Igelige added.
VDM responded to the app launch on Instagram, asserting that being “Ratel” goes beyond legal paperwork. He claimed ownership stems from authenticity, personal branding, and influence.
“So, I just heard that somebody has trademarked the Ratel, and you know what you don’t know. There can only be one Ratel. Being the Ratel goes beyond trademark—it’s part of you, it’s spiritual, physical, dominance, resilience, doggedness,” VDM said.
The dispute highlights the nuances of trademark law in Nigeria, particularly how names can be legally shared across different business sectors, even amid public perception that ownership is exclusive.
