EFCC Arraigns Influencer Blessing CEO Over Alleged ₦36 Million Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned popular social media influencer and relationship therapist Okoro Blessing Nkiruka before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, over an alleged ₦36 million fraud case.

Blessing CEO was brought before Justice Deinde Dipeolu on a two-count charge bordering on alleged obtaining by false pretence and stealing.

During the court proceedings, defence counsel P. I. Nwafor informed the court that the defendant had already refunded ₦24 million to the complainant and requested a short adjournment to settle the remaining balance.

According to the defence, the complainant had agreed to intervene with the EFCC if the outstanding amount was paid in full.

However, prosecution counsel Suleiman I. Suleiman argued that the anti-graft agency was not involved in any private settlement discussions between the parties, stressing that the Federal Government was the complainant in the matter and that the arraignment should proceed.

Justice Dipeolu ruled that discussions between the defendant and the nominal complainant could continue independently without affecting the court process, directing the defendant to take her plea.

One of the charges alleged that between July 14 and 17, 2024, Blessing CEO obtained ₦36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye under the pretence of arranging the lease of a six-bedroom duplex located in Lekki, Lagos, a representation prosecutors claimed she knew was false.

She was also accused of fraudulently converting the money for personal use.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.

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

The defence counsel, however, noted that the charges had only recently been served and requested that she remain in EFCC custody while her bail application is being processed.

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

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