The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist, Blessing CEO, over allegations of fraud involving ₦36 million.

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

In a statement, the EFCC said the defendant is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and alleged conversion of funds to the tune of ₦36 million.

During proceedings, defence counsel P. I. Nwafor informed the court that part of the disputed sum had already been refunded to the complainant. He told the court that ₦24 million had been returned and requested a short adjournment to enable the parties conclude settlement of the outstanding balance, noting that the complainant was willing to consider withdrawing the petition upon full repayment.

The prosecution counsel, S. I. Suleiman, however, opposed the application, arguing that the EFCC was not a party to any private settlement between the defendant and the complainant. He maintained that the matter before the court was a criminal prosecution instituted in the name of the Federal Government and urged the court to proceed with the arraignment.

In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu held that any ongoing discussions between the defendant and the nominal complainant did not affect the criminal proceedings before the court. He directed that the defendant proceed to take her plea.

On the charge, the EFCC alleged that Blessing CEO obtained ₦36 million from one Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex located at No. 1B Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos. The commission further alleged that the representation was false and contravened the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

Another count accused her of fraudulently converting the said sum for personal use, contrary to provisions of the Criminal Code Act.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following her plea, the prosecution applied for her remand in a correctional facility pending trial. However, defence counsel informed the court that a bail application was being prepared and requested that she be remanded in EFCC custody pending the perfection of bail conditions.

Justice Dipeolu granted the request and ordered that she be remanded in EFCC custody. The case was adjourned until June 5, 2026, for commencement of trial.