Entertainment
EFCC Arraigns Blessing CEO Over Alleged N36 Million Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned popular social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, over an alleged N36 million fraud case.
Blessing CEO was arraigned on Friday before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money under false pretence and alleged stealing.
According to the EFCC, the defendant allegedly obtained N36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the guise of arranging the lease of a six-bedroom detached duplex located in Lekki, Lagos.
During the proceedings, counsel to the defendant, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that Blessing CEO had already refunded N24 million to the petitioner and requested a short adjournment to allow parties settle the outstanding balance amicably.
“We are asking for a short adjournment to resolve the outstanding balance. The nominal complainant agreed that if the balance is paid, they can prevail on the EFCC to drop the case,” the defence counsel stated.
However, prosecution counsel S.I. Suleiman argued that the Federal Government of Nigeria remained the complainant in the matter and insisted that the arraignment proceed as scheduled.
Justice Dipeolu ruled that discussions between the defendant and the nominal complainant would not affect the court proceedings and directed that the charges be read.
One of the charges alleged that Blessing CEO knowingly made false representations regarding the property transaction, while another accused her of fraudulently converting the N36 million to personal use.
The influencer pleaded “not guilty” to both counts.
Following her plea, the prosecution requested a trial date and sought her remand in a correctional facility pending trial. Her counsel, however, pleaded that she be remanded in EFCC custody while her bail application is being perfected, noting that the charges were only served a day earlier.
Justice Dipeolu subsequently ordered that Blessing CEO be remanded in EFCC custody and adjourned the matter till June 5, 2026, for commencement of trial.
The case has since sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians debating celebrity influence, financial transactions, and accountability on social media.
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