Trademarking Your Brand: Lessons from the "BLord vs. VeryDarkMan" Dispute on Protecting Your Name

In the Nigerian and global digital space, your name is your most valuable asset. We’ve recently seen high-profile public disputes, such as the friction between BLord and VeryDarkMan, which highlight a critical lesson for every creator: If you don’t legally own your brand name, someone else might.

As an artist building the Scorti-Samuel identity between Nigeria and the UK, I’ve realized that being "grounded and humble" doesn't mean being unprotected. If you’re serious about your craft in 2026, you must understand the power of a Trademark.

1. What is a Trademark?

A trademark protects your brand identity—your stage name, your logo, and even your catchphrases—from being used by others for profit.

The Risk: Imagine building a massive following on Boomplay, only to find out a company has trademarked your name and is now suing you to take down your music. It happens more often than you think.

2. The "BLord vs. VDM" Lesson: Reputation vs. Legal Standing

While social media "call-outs" make for trending topics, the real battle happens in the courtroom and the Ministry of Trade and Investment.

Documentation over Drama: Public figures often learn the hard way that "who is right" in the eyes of the public doesn't matter if your intellectual property (IP) isn't registered.

Control the Narrative: Having a registered trademark gives you the legal "teeth" to issue Cease and Desist orders if someone tries to impersonate you or sell fake "Scorti-Samuel" merchandise.

3. How to Trademark Your Name in Nigeria

If you are a Nigerian creator, you need to deal with the Commercial Law Department of the Ministry of Trade and Investment.

Availability Search: Check if your name is already taken.

Application: Submit your logo and name under the correct "Class" (Class 41 is usually for entertainment/music).

Acceptance & Publication: Your trademark is published in a "Journal." If no one objects within a certain period, you get your certificate.

4. International Protection (UK & Beyond)

Since I operate in the UK, I also have to consider the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO).

The Madrid Protocol: This allows you to file one application to protect your trademark in multiple countries. This is essential for "Cross-Continental" brands.

5. Don't Wait for a "Dispute" to Act

Most creators only think about trademarks when they are being sued or when someone steals their handle.

The "Scorti" Strategy: I treat my music like a business from Day 1. Registering your name is a sign of professionalism. It tells investors, record labels, and brands that you are a serious entity, not just a "viral moment."

6. The Checklist for Creators

Domain Name: Do you own yourname.com?

Social Handles: Are they consistent across TikTok, Instagram, and X?

Trademark: Have you filed for your stage name in your primary country?

Final Thought

In the "Renewed Hope" era of the Nigerian creative economy, the winners will be those who combine talent with legal literacy. Protect your name so you can focus on the music.

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