EFCC arraigns influencer Blessing CEO over N36 million fraud

Lagos – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned self‑styled relationship therapist and social‑media influencer Blessing CEO on Friday at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos. The influencer, whose legal name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, faces two counts: obtaining money by false pretence and the alleged theft of N36 million.

Justice D.I. Dipeolu presided over the hearing. According to the EFCC’s statement, the prosecution alleges that the defendant defrauded a private individual of the sum, but the defence counsel, P.I. Nwafor, told the court that the defendant has already refunded N24 million of the amount claimed.

“The defendant approached the complainant and returned N24 million. We are seeking a short adjournment to settle the remaining balance. The complainant has agreed that, should the balance be paid, the EFCC may consider withdrawing the case,” the lawyer said.

The prosecuting counsel, S.I. Suleiman, countered that the EFCC is not a party to any private settlement between the two parties. “The complainant in this matter is the Federal Government of Nigeria. Our focus is the arraignment, and we urge the defendant to enter her plea,” he asserted.

Justice Dipeolu ruled that any settlement discussions between the defendant and the complainant would not affect the criminal proceedings. “The defence and the complainant may negotiate, but the case will continue before the court. The defendant will now enter her plea,” the judge ordered.

Following the plea, Justice Dipeolu granted the defence’s request for a brief adjournment and remanded Blessing CEO in EFCC custody. The trial has been scheduled to commence on 5 June 2026.

The case underscores the EFCC’s continued focus on online fraud and the growing scrutiny of influencers who promote financial schemes. Observers note that the outcome could set a precedent for how alleged cyber‑fraud cases involving public figures are handled in Nigeria’s courts. Further developments will be reported as the trial proceeds.