The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has addressed the ongoing controversy involving influencer Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, stating that no official petition has been submitted against her despite widespread public backlash.
The issue began in January when Blessing CEO announced that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and appealed for financial support from the public to fund her surgery. Her claim was met with scepticism, with many accusing her of fabricating the illness to solicit money.
Last Thursday, Blessing explained that she sought financial assistance early as a precaution, even before confirming the total cost of the procedure.
Amid continued criticism on Friday, the social media personality defended her decision not to publicly release her medical test results, citing patient confidentiality. She had earlier claimed to have ‘stage 4’ cancer but later described the situation as a “miscommunication”.
Blessing also revealed that she received N13 million in donations, contrary to reports suggesting she raised N100 million.
Despite her explanations, criticism intensified online. Alafaa Kariboye-Igbo, CEO of Karib Oil and Gas Limited, challenged her claim, stating he alone transferred N20 million to her and subsequently demanded a refund.
Reacting on Monday, a source within the EFCC disclosed that the commission has not received any formal complaint against Blessing CEO. The source stressed that the agency does not act based on social media pressure but requires a valid petition to commence investigations.
“Everybody is saying EFCC should arrest Blessing CEO. But nobody has placed a petition before the EFCC CEO. As an anti-corruption agency, we cannot work on social media agitation, social media frenzy, without a credible petition that will authorise us to work on it,” the source said.
The official added that a petitioner is essential to serve as a witness if the case proceeds to court.
“If we go by social media agitation and there is a need to go to court, who is going to serve as a witness? Who are we going to say has petitioned the commission?” the source asked.
“So we expect that people who are so passionate about arrest and who are calling that, ‘oh, the EFCC should do this, the EFCC should do that’, we expect them to come forward and bring a petition that will authorise us, that will give us a legitimate ground to act on the matter.
“So as an agency, we are organised. Place facts before us, and we act on them.”
The source further advised that anyone with grievances should present evidence, including proof of donations made to Blessing.
“Everybody knows that if somebody obtains anything by false pretence, they are liable to EFCC investigation if it can be established. This is the receipt of the money she collected. They should come forward with receipts and evidence,” the source added.