Self-acclaimed relationship therapist Blessing CEO was arraigned by the EFCC over an alleged N36 million property fraud in Lagos.
Popular relationship coach and social media influencer Blessing CEO has landed in court over a serious financial dispute.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned her on Friday before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos. She is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money under false pretenses and stealing.
Her real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka. The anti-graft agency accused her of fraudulently collecting N36 million from a woman named Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye.
According to the EFCC, the transaction happened between July 14 and 17, 2024. Blessing CEO allegedly collected the huge sum under the guise of leasing a six-bedroom duplex to the petitioner. The property is located at Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road in the Lekki area of Lagos.
Instead of leasing the property, investigators claim she converted the money for her personal use.
However, the court proceedings took an interesting turn. Her defense lawyer, P.I. Nwafor, told the court that his client had already refunded N24 million to the complainant. He asked for a short delay to allow them settle the outstanding N12 million balance.
The lawyer added that the complainant was ready to ask the EFCC to drop the case once the remaining money was paid.
The prosecution counsel, S.I. Suleiman, firmly rejected this request. He reminded the court that the EFCC was not part of any private settlement. He stressed that the Federal Government is the complainant in this criminal matter and insisted the defendant must take her plea.
Justice D.I. Dipeolu agreed with the prosecution. The judge ruled that private discussions between Blessing CEO and the petitioner could continue, but it would not stop the criminal trial.
Following the ruling, Blessing CEO pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecution then asked the court to remand her in a correctional facility while awaiting trial. Her lawyer objected, explaining that they only received the court documents a day earlier and needed time to file a proper bail application.
He pleaded with the judge to allow her remain in EFCC custody instead.
Justice Dipeolu granted the request. She ordered that the influencer be kept in EFCC custody pending the perfection of her bail conditions.
The case has been adjourned until June 5, 2026, for the trial to begin.
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