EFCC arraigns Blessing CEO in Lagos over alleged N36m fraud, as court hears claims of partial refund and adjournment request
The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO, before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, over an alleged N36 million fraud case.
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The EFCC arraigns Blessing CEO on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing, allegedly involving the sum of N36,000,000.
During proceedings, defence counsel P.I. Nwafor informed the court that the defendant had already refunded a substantial portion of the disputed funds to the nominal complainant.
Counsel told the court that N24 million had been repaid and requested an adjournment to allow parties resolve the outstanding balance.
The defence also noted that the complainant was willing to consider withdrawing the matter if full repayment was completed.
However, prosecution counsel S.I. Suleiman opposed the request, stating that the Federal Government remains the complainant in the case and that the court should proceed with the arraignment.
The prosecution insisted that the defendant must take her plea, describing it as the proper course of proceedings.
Justice D.I. Dipeolu ruled that discussions between the parties could continue even while the charge is pending.
The judge held that such negotiations do not affect the court process and directed that the defendant proceed to take her plea.
The case has attracted significant public attention, given Blessing CEO’s profile on social media and her influence in relationship and lifestyle commentary.
Also read: EFCC arraigns Viscount Microfinance Bank MD over alleged N19m, $30,000 investment fraud
The proceedings are expected to continue as the court determines the next steps in the matter.
