By Onoja Baba
Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved ruling until June 9, on the bail application filed by social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO.
The influencer is facing trial on a two-count charge filed by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, bordering on alleged obtaining by false pretence and stealing involving N36 million.
According to the anti-graft agency, Blessing CEO allegedly obtained the sum of N36 million from a complainant under the guise of securing the lease of a six-bedroom detached duplex in Lekki, Lagos.
The EFCC further alleged that the representation was false and that the funds were converted for personal use.
The defendant was first arraigned before the court in May, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During the proceedings, her counsel informed the court that she had refunded N24 million to the complainant and sought time to resolve the outstanding balance.
However, the prosecution maintained that the matter was a criminal case involving the Federal Government and should proceed in court.
Justice Dipeolu subsequently ordered that the arraignment proceed and directed that the defendant take her plea.
Following her not-guilty plea, she was remanded pending the hearing of her bail application.
At Friday’s proceedings, arguments were taken on her application for bail, after which the court reserved its ruling until June 9.
The case has attracted significant public attention due to Blessing CEO’s prominence on social media, where she is widely known for relationship and lifestyle commentary.
The trial is expected to continue after the court delivers its decision on the bail application. Meanwhile, the defendant remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by the court
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