N36m fraud trial: Court adjourns judgment on Blessing CEO’s bail

A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved its ruling on the bail application of social media influencer and relationship therapist Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, widely known as Blessing CEO. She faces a two-count charge related to obtaining money by false pretenses and stealing, as part of an ongoing N36 million fraud trial.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Blessing CEO. The commission stated that the defendant allegedly obtained N36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024. The funds were purportedly for leasing a six-bedroom duplex in Lekki, Lagos.

During previous proceedings, Blessing CEO's defense counsel informed the court that N24 million had been repaid and requested time to settle the remaining balance. However, the EFCC opposed any private settlement, insisting that the criminal trial must proceed. Justice D.I. Dipeolu had previously ruled that negotiations between parties could not halt the legal proceedings and ordered the defendant to remain in custody.

The court has adjourned the case until June 9, 2026, for the ruling on the bail application. The proceedings underscore the EFCC's stance against private settlements in criminal cases, emphasizing the need for the trial to continue.

“

Court reserves ruling on Blessing CEO’s bail application.