Lilian Ugwu
A Lagos Federal High Court has begun hearing a high-profile fraud case involving controversial social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist, Blessing CEO (Okoro Blessing Nkiruka), who is accused of allegedly obtaining N36 million under false pretence.
The case, which has attracted widespread public attention due to her large online following and outspoken personality, is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Blessing CEO is facing a two-count charge bordering on alleged obtaining of money by false pretence and criminal conversion of funds linked to a disputed property transaction in Lagos.
Alleged Property Deal Sparks Legal Battle
According to the EFCC, the alleged offence occurred between July 14 and 17, 2024, when Blessing CEO is said to have received N36 million from a complainant, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye.
The money was reportedly paid for the lease of a six-bedroom duplex located at No. 1B Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos State.
The anti-graft agency told the court that the representation made during the transaction was false and misleading, forming the basis of the fraud allegation under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.
The EFCC further accused her of converting the funds for personal use, an action which it described as a criminal breach under Nigeria’s Criminal Code Act.
Court Drama as Refund Claim Emerges
During Friday’s proceedings, defence counsel informed the court that Blessing CEO had already refunded part of the disputed funds.
According to the defence lawyer, N24 million out of the alleged N36 million had been returned to the complainant following private negotiations between both parties.
He further told the court that discussions were ongoing to resolve the outstanding balance, adding that the complainant had indicated willingness to encourage the EFCC to withdraw the case if full repayment was completed.
However, the prosecution strongly opposed any attempt to treat the matter as a private dispute.
The EFCC counsel argued that the case was a criminal prosecution instituted in the name of the Federal Government of Nigeria and not subject to private settlement arrangements.
He insisted that the defendant must take her plea as scheduled, stressing that the agency was not part of any private agreement between the parties involved.
Judge Rules on Private Settlement Argument
In his ruling, Justice D.I. Dipeolu held that while parties are free to engage in settlement discussions, such arrangements do not stop criminal proceedings once a charge has been filed.
The judge stated that the court would proceed with the matter regardless of any private refund or negotiation between the defendant and the complainant.
He ruled that Blessing CEO must take her plea, emphasizing that the law must take its full course.
Following the ruling, the defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against her.
EFCC Moves for Remand
After her plea, the prosecution immediately requested that Blessing CEO be remanded in custody pending trial.
The EFCC argued that the seriousness of the allegations, combined with the financial value involved, made it necessary for the defendant to remain in custody until the trial progresses.
However, her defence counsel appealed to the court for leniency, stating that they had only been served with the charges the previous day and were still preparing a formal bail application.
The defence therefore requested that she be remanded in EFCC custody temporarily while arrangements for bail were being finalized.
Court Orders EFCC Custody
After listening to both sides, the judge ordered that Blessing CEO be remanded in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The court ruled that the decision was necessary to ensure proper judicial procedure pending the hearing of her bail application.
The matter was subsequently adjourned until June 5, 2026, for commencement of trial.
Public Attention Intensifies
The case has continued to generate strong reactions online due to Blessing CEO’s public image as a relationship coach and influencer with a large social media following.
Observers say the case highlights growing concerns about financial trust issues involving public figures and private property transactions in Nigeria’s real estate sector.
Legal analysts also note that the case underscores the limits of private settlements in criminal prosecutions, especially where allegations of fraud are involved.
As the case progresses, attention is expected to increase, with many Nigerians closely watching how the court handles the allegations, refund claims, and legal arguments.
For now, Blessing CEO remains in custody as proceedings continue, with the next hearing scheduled for June 5, 2026.