Blessing CEO Arraigned Over Alleged N36 Million Fraud in Lagos
LAGOS, Nigeria — Blessing Okoro, a well-known social media influencer and self-proclaimed relationship therapist popularly known as Blessing CEO, was arraigned on Friday, May 31, 2024, at the Federal High Court in Lagos. She faces charges of fraud and obtaining money under false pretenses amounting to N36 million (approximately $24,000).
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused Okoro of defrauding a petitioner, Ifeyinwa Okoye, by falsely promising to secure a six-bedroom detached duplex in Lekki, Lagos. According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the alleged fraud occurred between July 14 and 17, 2024.
During the court proceedings, Okoro pleaded not guilty to the charges. Her defense lawyer, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that his client had already refunded N24 million to the nominal complainant and requested an adjournment to resolve the outstanding balance.
“The defendant approached the nominal complainant and refunded N24 million out of the N36 million. We are asking for a short adjournment to settle the remaining balance. The complainant has agreed to inform the EFCC to drop the case if the balance is paid,” Nwafor stated.
However, the prosecution, led by S.I. Suleiman, opposed the request, emphasizing that the Federal Government of Nigeria is the complainant in the case. “We urge that the defendant take her plea, as that is the business of the day,” Suleiman asserted.
Justice D.I. Dipeolu ruled that discussions between Okoro and the complainant could continue independently of the criminal proceedings. He adjourned the case to June 5, 2024, for the commencement of the trial and ordered that Okoro be remanded in EFCC custody pending the perfection of her bail conditions.
A History of Controversy
This latest legal battle is not the first time Blessing CEO has found herself embroiled in controversy. In recent years, she has faced scrutiny over various allegations, including fraudulent claims about her health and property ownership.
In 2023, Okoro sparked a public outcry after claiming she had been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer and appealed for financial assistance for surgery and treatment. However, her claims were later disputed when a make-up artist, Deborah Mbara, alleged that Okoro had doctored Mbara’s medical test results to support her own narrative.
“I gave her my results because she said she wanted to compare them with hers. Only for me to see on social media that she had doctored my results to defraud people,” Mbara stated in a video shared on Instagram.
Similarly, in 2019, Okoro faced backlash after claiming ownership of a seven-bedroom mansion in Enugu, which she said she built to mark her 30th birthday. The assertion was debunked when a businessman, Onye Eze, publicly identified himself as the rightful owner of the property.
Subsequent videos showed Okoro admitting, “This house doesn’t belong to me. It belongs to Onye Eze na Chinko. I recently came here to take a picture. I’m not the owner of the house.”
Broader Implications
The case against Blessing CEO highlights the growing scrutiny of social media influencers in Nigeria, particularly those accused of exploiting their platforms for financial gain. The EFCC’s pursuit of the case underscores its commitment to combating financial crimes, even when high-profile individuals are involved.
As the trial progresses, many are watching closely to see how the legal system navigates the complexities of social media-driven controversies and fraud allegations. For now, Okoro remains in EFCC custody, awaiting the next phase of her legal battle.
— Reported by Nexio News
