By Onoja Baba, Nigeria
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday arraigned popular social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, also known as Blessing CEO, before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.
She was charged with two counts bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N36 million.
According to the EFCC, Blessing CEO allegedly obtained the sum from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye under the false pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex located at No. 1B, Tunbosun Osobu Street, Off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos, between July 14 and 17, 2024.
Her counsel, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that the defendant had already refunded N24 million out of the N36 million and requested an adjournment to settle the outstanding balance, saying the nominal complainant was willing to withdraw the case if full payment is made.
The prosecution, however, insisted that the defendant should take her plea, noting that the complainant in the matter is the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Blessing CEO pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Justice Dipeolu ordered that she be remanded in EFCC custody pending the perfection of her bail application. The matter was adjourned to June 5, 2026, for the commenc
ement of trial.
categories
recent posts
Nigeria’s Loss, Their Gain: Why Rahila Joined The Nursing Exodus Abroad
NIGERIA: KYCA Moves To End Two-Year Leadership Crisis, Agrees on Elections And By-Elections
Charcoal Briquettes: The Promise of Cleaner Fuel And The Hidden Health Risks
From Charcoal Waste To Wealth: How Two Young Nigerian Women Are Making Briquettes For Sustenance
