Court Reserves Ruling on Blessing CEO’s Bail in Alleged ₦36 Million Fraud Case

The Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved ruling on the bail application filed by controversial social media personality and relationship coach, Blessing CEO, who is currently facing trial over an alleged ₦36 million fraud case.

Justice D.I. Dipeolu fixed June 9, 2026, for the ruling after listening to arguments from both the prosecution and defence during proceedings on Friday.

Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of obtaining money under false pretences and misappropriating funds belonging to a client.

EFCC Details Alleged Fraud Scheme

According to the anti-graft agency, the social media influencer allegedly received ₦36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and July 17, 2024.

The EFCC alleged that the money was collected under the pretext of securing a lease agreement for a six-bedroom detached duplex located in the upscale Lekki area of Lagos State.

Prosecutors, however, claimed that the representation made to the complainant was false and that the funds were subsequently diverted for personal use rather than the stated purpose.

The allegations form the basis of a two-count charge brought against the influencer by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the EFCC.

Defendant Pleads Not Guilty

Blessing CEO was arraigned before the court on May 15, 2026, where she pleaded not guilty to all charges filed against her.

Following her plea, the court ordered that she remain in EFCC custody pending the determination of her bail application.

The ruling expected on June 9 will determine whether she will be granted temporary freedom while trial proceedings continue.

Defence Claims Partial Refund Made

During the hearing, counsel to the defendant, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that his client had already refunded ₦24 million to the complainant.

The lawyer further disclosed that efforts were ongoing to settle the outstanding balance and urged the court to consider the development.

According to the defence, discussions between both parties had progressed significantly, with indications that the complainant might be willing to discontinue the matter once the remaining amount is fully paid.

EFCC Opposes Settlement Argument

However, counsel for the EFCC, S.I. Suleiman, opposed any suggestion that a private settlement could halt the prosecution.

The prosecutor argued that the case was instituted by the Federal Government and not by the complainant, making it a criminal matter that cannot simply be withdrawn based on an agreement between private parties.

Suleiman maintained that the court should focus on the criminal allegations before it, regardless of any ongoing negotiations outside the courtroom.

Court Insists Criminal Trial Must Continue

In his remarks, Justice Dipeolu acknowledged the right of both parties to continue discussions aimed at resolving the financial dispute.

However, he made it clear that any private settlement would not automatically terminate the criminal proceedings.

The judge subsequently directed that the charges be formally read to the defendant, after which she entered a plea of not guilty.

High-Profile Case Draws Public Attention

Blessing CEO remains one of Nigeria’s most talked-about social media figures, known for her outspoken opinions on relationships, marriage, celebrity culture, and social issues.

Over the years, she has frequently generated headlines through controversial public statements and high-profile disputes.

The ongoing EFCC prosecution has attracted significant public attention and is regarded as one of the most prominent criminal cases currently involving a Nigerian social media influencer.

If convicted, she could face penalties under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act and other relevant laws.

The matter was adjourned until June 9, 2026, when the court is expected to deliver its ruling on her bail application.