Controversial relationship therapist and social media influencer, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka (popularly known as Blessing CEO), has landed in deep legal trouble once again.

The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday, May 15, 2026, arraigned the celebrity influencer before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, over an alleged ₦36 million fraud.

The Charges: Fake Lekki Duplex Lease?

Blessing CEO is facing a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money under false pretenses and stealing.

According to the EFCC, the influencer allegedly defrauded a complainant, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye, of ₦36,000,000 between July 14 and 17, 2024. The money was allegedly collected under the false pretense of leasing a luxury six-bedroom detached duplex located in Lekki, Lagos.

The charges filed against her state that she fraudulently converted the money to her personal use, violating both the Advance Fee Fraud Act (2006) and the Criminal Code Act.

Courtroom Drama: "We Have Paid Back ₦24 Million"

As the court session began, Blessing CEO’s defense lawyer, P.I. Nwafor, dropped a bombshell, revealing that his client had already begun making desperate moves to settle the matter out of court.

The lawyer pleaded for a short adjournment, informing the judge that Blessing CEO had already refunded ₦24 million out of the ₦36 million to the complainant. He claimed they were working to clear the outstanding balance so the victim could ask the EFCC to drop the case.

However, the EFCC prosecution counsel, S.I. Suleiman, shut down the defense's argument, stating:

"The complainant here is the Federal Government of Nigeria, and we are here for the arraignment. We urge that the defendant take her plea."

Justice Dipeolu agreed with the EFCC, ruling that out-of-court discussions do not halt court proceedings.

Plea and Remand Order

When the charges were read out loud, Blessing CEO firmly pleaded "not guilty."

Following her plea, the EFCC asked the court for a trial date and requested that she be sent straight to a correctional facility (prison). Blessing CEO's lawyer quickly intervened, explaining that they were only served the court papers on Thursday, May 14, and begged the judge to let her stay in EFCC custody instead of prison while they process her bail.

What Happens Next?

Justice Dipeolu granted the defense's request and ordered that Blessing CEO be remanded in EFCC custody.

The case has been officially adjourned until June 5, 2026, for the commencement of the trial.