Fresh Twist In ₦36 Million Fraud Case As New Details Emerge About Blessing CEO

The judge adjourned the decision to June 9, 2026, after listening to arguments from both the prosecution and defence counsel on Friday.

Blessing CEO is currently standing trial on a two-count charge filed by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), involving allegations of obtaining money by false pretence and theft amounting to ₦36 million.

The case centres on allegations that she collected ₦36 million from a petitioner under the claim that she could facilitate the lease of a six-bedroom duplex located on Tunbosun Osobu Street, off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos.

The EFCC alleged that the representation was false and that the funds were subsequently diverted for personal use.

During an earlier hearing, defence counsel P.I. Nwafor informed the court that his client had refunded ₦24 million to the complainant and requested time to negotiate settlement of the outstanding balance.

However, the prosecution argued that any private settlement between the parties would not affect the criminal case, noting that the Federal Government remains the complainant.

Justice Dipeolu ruled that settlement discussions could continue alongside the ongoing trial and ordered the defendant to take her plea.

The charges state that between July 14 and July 17, 2024, Blessing CEO allegedly obtained ₦36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye under the pretence of securing a property lease in Lekki.

The EFCC further alleged that the funds were fraudulently converted for personal benefit.

When the charges were read, she pleaded not guilty.

Following her plea, the prosecution asked for a trial date and requested that she be remanded pending hearing, while the defence noted that the charges were recently served and that bail arrangements were being pursued.

The court initially ordered that she be held in EFCC custody pending further proceedings and adjourned the matter.

At Friday’s sitting, both sides argued the bail application, after which Justice Dipeolu reserved ruling until June 9, 2026.