The Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved ruling on the bail application filed by controversial social media influencer and self-acclaimed relationship therapist, Blessing CEO, who is currently facing prosecution over an alleged N36 million fraud case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice D.I. Dipeolu fixed June 9, 2026, for the ruling after listening to submissions from counsel representing both the defendant and the prosecution on Friday.
Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, is standing trial before the court on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.
According to the EFCC, the defendant allegedly obtained N36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and July 17, 2024, under the guise of securing a lease agreement for a six-bedroom detached duplex located in Lekki, Lagos State.
The anti-graft agency alleged that the representation made to the complainant was false and that the money was subsequently diverted for personal use.
The court’s decision on the bail application is expected to determine whether the social media personality will remain in custody pending the commencement of full trial proceedings.
Blessing CEO was arraigned before Justice Dipeolu on May 15, 2026, after the EFCC formally charged her with offences relating to obtaining money by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N36 million.
During the arraignment proceedings, defence counsel, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that the defendant had already refunded N24 million to the complainant and was making efforts to settle the outstanding balance. Counsel further argued that discussions were ongoing between both parties and claimed that the complainant was willing to withdraw from the dispute upon full repayment.
However, EFCC counsel, S.I. Suleiman, opposed the request, insisting that the matter had transcended a private dispute and had become a criminal prosecution being pursued by the Federal Government. He urged the court to proceed with the case irrespective of any settlement discussions between the defendant and the complainant.
In his ruling at the time, Justice Dipeolu held that while parties were free to continue settlement negotiations outside the courtroom, such discussions would not halt the criminal proceedings before the court. He subsequently ordered that the charges be read to the defendant.
Blessing CEO pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following her plea, the court ordered that she be remanded in EFCC custody pending the hearing and determination of her bail application while also setting dates for trial.
Known for her outspoken and often controversial commentary on relationships, marriage, celebrity lifestyles and social issues, Blessing CEO has remained one of Nigeria’s most talked-about social media personalities. Her public profile has frequently been marked by controversies, social media confrontations and legal disputes that have attracted widespread public attention.
The ongoing prosecution has emerged as one of the most prominent criminal cases involving a Nigerian social media influencer in recent years. Legal observers note that a conviction could expose the defendant to penalties prescribed under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act and other applicable provisions of Nigerian law.
The matter was adjourned until June 9, 2026, when the court is expected to deliver its ruling on the bail application and determine the next phase of proceedings in the case.