The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission brought the defendant before Justice D.I. Dipeolu on a two-count charge involving obtaining money under false pretence and theft.
Prosecutors allege that between July 14 and 17, 2024, in Lagos, she received ₦36 million from Mrs Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye, reportedly under the claim of leasing a six-bedroom duplex located in Lekki. Investigators say the representation was false and that the funds were diverted.
A second count accuses her of unlawfully converting the same sum for personal use, contrary to provisions of the Criminal Code Act and the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act.
At the start of proceedings, defence counsel P.I. Nwafor told the court that ₦24 million had already been refunded to the complainant and requested time to conclude settlement talks over the remaining balance. The defence argued that the complainant was open to withdrawing cooperation with investigators if full restitution was completed.
The prosecution opposed the request, maintaining that the case is instituted in the name of the Federal Government and that the arraignment should proceed without delay.
Justice Dipeolu ruled that discussions between parties could continue alongside the trial process but held that the defendant must take her plea.
When the charges were read, Blessing Nkiruka pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution requested that she be remanded pending trial, while the defence asked that she remain in EFCC custody until her bail application is concluded, noting that she had only recently been served with the charge.
The court granted the request and ordered her remand in EFCC custody. The case was adjourned to June 5, 2026, for trial commencement.
