EFCC Arraigns Blessing CEO Over Alleged ₦36 Million Fraud in Lagos

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned social media personality and relationship therapist Blessing CEO, popularly known as Blessing CEO, before the Federal High Court over an alleged ₦36 million fraud case.

Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, was arraigned on Friday before Justice D.I. Dipeolu on a two-count charge bordering on alleged obtaining by false pretence and fraudulent conversion of funds.

According to the prosecution, the defendant allegedly obtained ₦36 million from one Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the claim of securing a six-bedroom detached duplex located in Lekki, Lagos.

During proceedings, defence counsel P.I. Nwafor informed the court that the defendant had refunded ₦24 million to the complainant and requested a short adjournment to allow discussions over the outstanding balance.

“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 lawyer told the court.

However, prosecution counsel S.I. Suleiman opposed the request, insisting that the matter before the court was criminal in nature and that the Federal Government remained the complainant in the case.

Justice Dipeolu subsequently ruled that discussions between the parties would not stop the proceedings and directed that the defendant take her plea.

One of the charges alleged that Blessing CEO knowingly obtained the ₦36 million through false representation relating to the lease of the property.

Another count accused her of fraudulently converting the money for personal use.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Following her plea, the prosecution requested a trial date and asked the court to remand her in a correctional facility pending trial.

The defence, however, appealed for her to remain in EFCC custody pending the filing and perfection of her bail application, noting that the charge had only been served recently.

Justice Dipeolu granted the request and ordered that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody.

The matter was adjourned until June 5, 2026, for commencement of trial.