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

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has revealed that a Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved a ruling on the bail application filed by social media influencer and relationship therapist, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO, in her ongoing N36 million fraud trial.

In a statement shared on the commission’s official X handle on Friday, the statement noted that the defendant is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.

In the statement, the Commission said: “Court reserves ruling on Blessing CEO’s bail application. Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday, June 5, 2026, reserved ruling until June 9, 2026, on the bail application filed by social media influencer and relationship therapist, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO.”

The EFCC said she is being prosecuted by its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 over allegations that she obtained N36 million from one Mrs Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the pretence of leasing a six-bedroom duplex in Lekki, Lagos.

During earlier proceedings in the matter, the defence counsel told the court that N24 million had already been refunded and urged time to resolve the outstanding balance. However, the EFCC opposed any private settlement, insisting the criminal trial must proceed.

Justice D.I. Dipeolu had earlier ruled that the proceedings could not be halted by negotiations between the parties, ordering that the defendant remain in custody pending further hearing of the case.

The matter has now been adjourned till June 9, 2026, for ruling on the bail application.

UPDATE NEWS: As a Nigerian living in Nigeria or diaspora, you can now earn about ₦17- ₦25Million when you acquire premium domains for as low as $2500. You get paid in US Dollars. Ideal for Civil/public servants, Entrepreneurs, Accountants, Doctors, IT Experts and many others. Click here to start.

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.