A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has granted bail to popular social media influencer Blessing Nkiruka Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, but ordered her remand in a correctional facility until she satisfies the bail conditions.
Justice D.I. Dipeolu issued the ruling on Tuesday during proceedings in a case filed against the influencer by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over allegations of obtaining money under false pretences and misappropriation of funds.
Blessing CEO pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against her.
During the hearing, her lawyer, Nneka Nkama, requested that the defendant be allowed to remain in EFCC custody while arrangements were made to meet the bail requirements. However, EFCC counsel, Suleiman Suleiman, opposed the request, informing the court that the commission’s detention facility had reached capacity.
After considering arguments from both sides, Justice Dipeolu directed that the defendant be held in a correctional centre until she fulfills the conditions attached to her bail. The case was adjourned until June 22, 2026, for the continuation of trial.
According to the EFCC, Blessing CEO allegedly received ₦36 million from a complainant, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye, between July 14 and July 17, 2024. The commission claimed the money was collected on the representation that she had authority to lease a six-bedroom detached duplex located on Tunbosun Osobu Street in the Lekki area of Lagos.
Investigators further alleged that the complainant carried out renovation work on the property after making payment, only for the actual owner to later appear and evict her from the premises.
The anti-graft agency accused the social media personality of converting the funds for personal use and charged her with stealing and obtaining money by false pretence.
Despite the allegations, Blessing CEO denied any wrongdoing when the charges were read in court, setting the stage for a full trial on the matter.