Alleged Fraud: Social media influencer Blessing CEO granted N20 million bail

Social media influencer Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, was on Thursday granted N20 million bail by the Ikeja Special Offences Court over alleged N69.15 million property fraud.

Justice Rahman Oshodi admitted the defendant to bail with two responsible sureties in like sum.

Mr Oshodi said that although the prosecution did not oppose the application, the court had a duty to assess the gravity of the charges.

He said the court also considered the severity of the prescribed punishment before exercising its discretion.

The judge said the court took into account the defence’s explanation on the whereabouts of the defendant’s international passport.

He directed each surety to provide a three-year bank statement or proof of fixed deposits worth at least N20 million.

Mr Oshodi also ordered the defendant and her sureties to undergo screening through the Lagos State Judiciary’s Bail Information Management System.

He further directed the Nigerian Immigration Service to enforce the defendant’s travel restrictions, pending determination of the case.

The judge adjourned the case until October 12 for continuation of trial.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Blessing CEO on June 9.

She is facing a two-count charge of stealing and obtaining money by false pretences. She pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The EFCC alleged that in March 2025, the defendant obtained N69.15 million from Hope Chiropractic Health Clinic Ltd. through false pretences.

The commission alleged she claimed she would lease a property located in Lekki, Lagos, to the company.

According to the EFCC, the alleged offences contravene Section 285 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State.

The commission also said the alleged offences violate Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.

(NAN)