Influencer pleads not guilty as court orders remand, sets June 2026 trial date amid dispute over partial refund

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought social media personality Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, widely known as Blessing CEO, before a Federal High Court in Lagos over an alleged ₦36 million property fraud.

She is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and conversion of funds.

According to the EFCC, Blessing CEO allegedly collected ₦36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye in July 2024, claiming the funds were for securing a duplex lease in the Lekki area of Lagos State. The commission, however, alleges the transaction was fraudulent and the property arrangement was never fulfilled.

When the charges were read in court, the defendant pleaded not guilty.

Her legal counsel informed the court that ₦24 million had already been refunded and requested an out-of-court settlement for the remaining balance. The EFCC, however, rejected the proposal, insisting that the matter is a criminal prosecution on behalf of the state and cannot be settled privately.

Justice D.I. Dipeolu ruled that the case should proceed and ordered that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody, pending the hearing of her bail application.

The court adjourned proceedings, fixing June 2026 for the commencement of trial.