The Nigerian influencer, Blessing CEO, has again addressed backlash from critics requesting refunds of donations made towards her cancer treatment.
The funds were initially raised after she disclosed in January that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and appealed for financial support to cover her surgery.
Her announcement was met with doubt from some members of the public, who accused her of using the diagnosis to solicit money.
Responding on Thursday, Blessing explained that she sought financial assistance early as a precaution, even before confirming the full cost of the procedure.
She also revealed that her surgery had been delayed due to the controversy online, adding that further medical tests and post-surgery care would increase the overall expenses.
According to her, raising funds in advance was meant to prevent seeking urgent help later if her condition worsened.
In a viral video, she defended her stance, saying she could not share her medical test results publicly due to privacy concerns.
She added that many of her critics would not understand the medical details even if they were made available.
Blessing stressed that donations were voluntary and insisted that no one was compelled to contribute. She also pointed to her past philanthropic efforts as justification for seeking support.
“If I show you the result, can you interpret it? Show me one cancer patient who came to the internet to show their results. Because I came out and said lovers help me,” she said.
“Most of you who are making noise did not bring one kobo. If VDM wants to collect his money, that means it’s installment then him go wait make I sell. He would wait for me to sell my hair or sell my clothes.
“A lot of people who are commenting are ignorant about cancer. The people who understand are people who have gone through it. Many of you don’t understand privacy. If you do not trust me, do not give me your money.
“If you do not want to give, keep your money. I do not put a gun to your head to give me your one naira. I have paid my dues on social media.”