Blessing CEO in Fresh EFCC Net Over N69m Property Scam, Faces Dual Fraud Battle

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news
👁️ loading views...

Lagos — June 10, 2026 — Controversial social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, popularly known as Blessing CEO, found herself back in the dock on Tuesday as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned her over fresh allegations of obtaining N69.15 million by false pretenses and stealing.

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the EFCC brought the social media personality before Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja on a two-count charge. Prosecutors allege that on or about March 21, 2025, Nkiruka induced Hope Chiropractic Health Clinic Limited to part with the substantial sum by falsely claiming ownership of a property at No. 1 Tunbosun Osobu Street, Lekki. She reportedly represented that the property was available for a five-year lease — a claim authorities say she knew to be untrue.

The second count accuses her of dishonestly converting the same N69,150,000—belonging to the clinic—to her personal use, an offense punishable under the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

Tense Courtroom Drama

At the start of proceedings, prosecution counsel C.C. Okezie pressed for immediate arraignment, insisting the defendant had been properly served. Defense counsel Nkama Nneka countered that service was only recently effected. Justice Oshodi, after careful consideration, ruled that the matter should proceed according to law. The charges were read, and Nkiruka entered a “not guilty” plea.

Prosecutors requested her remand in EFCC custody, citing an impending appearance the following day (June 10) at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi on a separate matter. The judge adjourned the case to July 16, 2026, for hearing of her bail application and the commencement of trial.

Parallel Case Yields Bail

In a related development on the same day, Justice Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, granted Nkiruka bail in the sum of N10 million with two sureties in like amount in her earlier N36 million fraud case. One surety must be a family member, and both are required to provide stringent documentation: proof of employment, BVN, NIN, a valid phone number, an international passport, tax clearance certificates for the past two years, and six passport photographs.

That earlier matter, filed in May 2026, centers on similar allegations: obtaining N36 million from complainant Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and 17, 2024, under the pretense of leasing a luxury six-bedroom duplex in Lekki.

A Pattern of Alleged Deception?

This latest brush with the law adds to the growing list of controversies surrounding Blessing, CEO, who has built a significant online following dispensing relationship advice. Critics and online commentators have pointed to recurring themes in the allegations—particularly high-value property lease scams in upscale Lekki—raising questions about due diligence in Nigeria’s booming real estate sector and the vulnerabilities of businesses and individuals seeking premium properties.

As a veteran observer of Nigeria’s anti-graft efforts, one notes the EFCC’s persistence in pursuing these cases despite the defendant’s public profile. The dual proceedings underscore the agency’s commitment to holding high-visibility figures accountable, yet they also highlight the protracted nature of such trials and the strategic use of remand and stringent bail conditions.

Broader Implications

For many Nigerians, especially those navigating Lagos’ competitive property market, these cases spotlight risks in large financial transactions without rigorous verification. The involvement of a health clinic as a victim in the fresh charge adds another layer—potentially disrupting medical services and eroding trust in high-stakes business deals.

Nkiruka’s defense team will now work to meet the bail conditions while preparing for full trials. The EFCC, meanwhile, must prove its allegations beyond reasonable doubt in court.

As proceedings unfold, the case serves as a stark reminder: in an era of social media influence and rapid financial dealings, transparency and integrity remain non-negotiable. Public interest in this matter is understandably high, and developments over the coming weeks — particularly the July 16 hearing — will be closely watched.

How do you feel about this news?

Community Additions

Have a news tip, correction, or extra context about this story? Post it below instantly. All submissions appear live on this screen immediately.