Controversial social media personality and relationship commentator Blessing CEO will remain in custody for now after the Federal High Court in Lagos postponed its decision on her bail application in an ongoing ₦36 million fraud case.
The Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved ruling on the bail application filed by social media influencer, Blessing CEO, who is facing prosecution over an alleged ₦36 million fraud.
Justice D.I. Dipeolu fixed June 9, 2026, for the ruling after listening to arguments presented by both the prosecution and defence during proceedings on Friday.
Blessing CEO, whose real name is Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, is being prosecuted by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a two-count charge involving alleged obtaining by false pretence and stealing.
According to the anti-graft agency, the defendant allegedly received ₦36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and July 17, 2024, on the representation that the money would be used to secure a lease for a six-bedroom detached duplex located in Lekki, Lagos.
The EFCC alleged that the claim was false and that the funds were subsequently diverted for personal purposes.
The influencer was formally arraigned before the court on May 15, 2026, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against her.
During the proceedings, her lawyer, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that his client had already refunded ₦24 million to the complainant and was making efforts to settle the outstanding balance.
The defence further stated that discussions aimed at resolving the dispute were ongoing and that the complainant was willing to withdraw from the matter once full repayment had been made.
However, counsel to the EFCC, S.I. Suleiman, opposed the request, arguing that the case was a criminal prosecution initiated by the Federal Government and could not be discontinued solely on the basis of a private settlement between the parties.
In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu held that while both parties were free to continue negotiations outside the courtroom, such efforts would not affect the criminal proceedings before the court.
The judge subsequently directed that the charges be read to the defendant, after which she entered a plea of not guilty.
Following her arraignment, the court ordered that Blessing CEO remain in EFCC custody pending the determination of her bail application and the commencement of trial.
Widely known for her outspoken commentary on relationships, marriage, and celebrity issues, Blessing CEO has remained a prominent and often controversial figure on social media, frequently attracting public attention through her opinions and legal disputes.
The EFCC case is regarded as one of the most notable criminal prosecutions currently involving a Nigerian social media influencer. If convicted, she could face penalties under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act as well as other relevant laws.
The matter has been adjourned until June 9, 2026, when the court is expected to deliver its ruling on the bail application.
