A prosecution witness has accused social media influencer Blessing Nkiruka Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, of allegedly collecting ₦69.15 million from him after presenting herself as the owner of a property in Lagos.
The allegation was made on Monday by Dr Onuoha Okeigwe, the prosecution’s first witness, while being cross-examined by defence counsel during the continuation of Blessing CEO’s trial at the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja.
Okeigwe told the court, presided over by Justice Rahman Oshodi, that he relied on representations allegedly made by the defendant through WhatsApp conversations and in-person interactions before paying for the property.
Explaining his understanding of the transaction documents, the witness said he was a doctor of chiropractic rather than a lawyer and did not understand some legal terminology.
He nevertheless maintained that he had presented evidence to support his allegation that Blessing CEO falsely claimed ownership of the property before receiving the money.
“Blessing presented herself, claiming to be the owner of the property, and falsely collected money from me. She impersonated the owner of the property,” Okeigwe told the court.
The witness said their communications took place both before and after the payment. He also referred to Corporate Affairs Commission documents and other materials he had submitted in support of his claim.
During the proceedings, Okeigwe disagreed with defence counsel’s suggestion that Exhibit C was the only evidence he had tendered, insisting that other materials had also been presented to the court.
He further disclosed that he had instituted a separate civil suit against Blessing CEO over money he allegedly spent renovating the property.
According to the witness, he spent more than ₦100 million on renovations to prepare the premises for a medical facility he intended to establish there.
Okeigwe explained that the criminal case concerns the alleged ₦69.15 million property transaction, while the separate civil action seeks to recover the renovation expenses and obtain damages.
Blessing CEO was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on June 9, 2026, on a two-count charge of allegedly obtaining money by false pretence and stealing involving ₦69,150,000.
She pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The latest testimony forms part of the prosecution’s case against the influencer, with the court expected to hear further evidence as the proceedings continue.
Justice Oshodi adjourned the case until January 12, 2027, for the prosecution to call additional witnesses.
The allegations against Blessing CEO remain before the court. The witness’s testimony does not amount to a finding of guilt, and the charges must be determined through the judicial process.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
