Social media influencer and relationship commentator Blessing CEO has been remanded in EFCC custody following her arraignment over an alleged N36m fraud case in Lagos.
She was brought before the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, where the case was heard on Friday.
However, the court proceedings quickly shifted into a legal debate over bail and settlement attempts linked to the alleged property transaction.
According to court records, the defendant was accused of obtaining N36m under false pretences involving a luxury property in Lagos.
Moreover, the alleged transaction reportedly took place between mid-July 2024 and involved a six-bedroom duplex in Lekki.
The charge was read in court, and it was stated that “she allegedly obtained N36m from one Mrs Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex located at No. 1B Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos State.”
Meanwhile, her defence counsel informed the court that part of the money had already been refunded.
He also requested time for further settlement discussions, suggesting that an agreement could resolve the matter.
The prosecution maintained that the case was not a private dispute. Furthermore, it was argued that the Federal Government remained the complainant in the matter, not the individual involved in the transaction.
The prosecutor stated, “We urge that the defendant take her plea, as that is the business of the day,” insisting that the court proceed with formal charges despite settlement discussions.
Justice D.I. Dipeolu ruled in favour of the prosecution’s position. Consequently, the court held that private negotiations could not override criminal proceedings already before it.
Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, later pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against her.
In addition, her legal team requested that she be held in EFCC custody pending the completion of her bail conditions, which was granted by the court.
Furthermore, she was remanded by the EFCC following the court’s decision, as legal procedures continue ahead of trial.
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on June 5, 2026, when the trial is expected to formally begin.
