The Lagos state special offences court has granted bail in the sum of N20 million to Blessing Okoro, social media influencer popularly known as Blessing CEO, who is standing trial for alleged fraud involving N69 million.
Rahman Oshodi, the presiding judge, issued the ruling on Thursday after considering the defendant’s bail application.
Okoro was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in June on a two-count charge of obtaining money by false pretence and stealing. She pleaded not guilty to both counts.
The prosecution had requested that the influencer be remanded in EFCC custody pending trial.
In granting bail, Oshodi emphasised that the court is required to independently assess the nature of the allegations and the penalties prescribed by law. The judge set bail at N20 million, with two responsible sureties in the same amount.
Each surety must provide a three-year bank statement or evidence of a fixed deposit valued at no less than N20 million. The court also ordered that Okoro and her sureties be verified through the Lagos state judiciary’s bail information management system.
Earlier in the proceedings, the court requested the defendant’s international passport. However, her defence counsel submitted an affidavit of loss and a copy of a public notice, stating that the document had been misplaced.
Oshodi further directed that the Nigerian immigration service be notified of travel restrictions on Okoro until the case is concluded.
The case has been adjourned to October 12, 2026, for continuation of trial.
Separately, Blessing Okoro is also facing a two-count charge of obtaining money by false pretence and stealing totaling N36 million before the federal high court in Ikoyi.
