The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned popular social media influencer and self-acclaimed relationship therapist Blessing CEO over an alleged ₦36 million fraud case.

Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, was arraigned on Friday before Justice D.I. Dipeolu at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.

EFCC Files Two-Count Charge

According to the anti-graft agency, the influencer is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and alleged theft.

The EFCC alleged that Blessing CEO fraudulently obtained ₦36 million from one Mrs Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024.

According to the charge, the money was allegedly collected under the pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex located at No. 1B Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos State.

The commission said the representation was false and contrary to the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

Defence Mentions Refund Of ₦24m

During proceedings, defence counsel P.I. Nwafor informed the court that the defendant had already refunded ₦24 million to the petitioner.

“We are asking for a short adjournment to resolve the outstanding balance,” the lawyer told the court.

He also stated that the nominal complainant had allegedly agreed to prevail on the EFCC to discontinue the matter if the remaining balance was paid.

However, prosecuting counsel S.I. Suleiman opposed the request, insisting that the Federal Government of Nigeria remained the complainant in the criminal case.

“We are here for the arraignment. We urge that the defendant take her plea,” the prosecutor said.

Court Orders Remand

Justice Dipeolu ruled that discussions between the defendant and the complainant would not stop the criminal proceedings before the court.

The judge subsequently directed Blessing CEO to take her plea.

She pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following the plea, the prosecution asked the court to remand her in a correctional facility pending trial.

Her lawyer, however, requested that she be kept in EFCC custody pending the perfection of her bail conditions.

Justice Dipeolu granted the request and ordered that the influencer be remanded in EFCC custody.

The matter was adjourned till June 5, 2026, for commencement of trial.