National News – A Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has reserved ruling on the bail application filed by social media influencer and relationship therapist, Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, who is standing trial over an alleged N36 million fraud.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in a statement issued on Friday, disclosed that Justice D.I. Dipeolu adjourned ruling on the bail application until June 9, 2026.

Blessing CEO is being prosecuted by the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.

According to the anti-graft agency, the defendant allegedly obtained N36 million from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye between July 14 and July 17, 2024, under the guise of securing a lease for a six-bedroom duplex located in Lekki, Lagos.

During previous proceedings, defence counsel informed the court that N24 million of the disputed sum had already been refunded and requested additional time to settle the outstanding balance. However, the EFCC opposed efforts to resolve the matter privately, insisting that the criminal proceedings should continue.

Justice Dipeolu had earlier ruled that negotiations between the parties could not halt the trial and ordered that the defendant remain in custody pending further hearing.

The case was subsequently adjourned to June 9, 2026, when the court is expected to deliver its ruling on the bail application.