The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has called for a full investigation into claims that social media personality Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, misrepresented her health to raise funds.
The society on Tuesday, described the situation as “disturbing and unethical,” warning that exploiting cancer narratives could damage public trust.
According to the NCS, Blessing CEO asked Nigerians for financial support by claiming she was battling cancer and received substantial donations. The society said “emerging allegations suggesting possible misrepresentation have cast serious doubt over the authenticity of the claims.”
The controversy deepened after the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Delta State chapter, stated that the medical report shared online by Blessing CEO did not belong to her. The document was issued to cancer survivor Deborah Mbara by Xinus Medical Diagnostics. Dr O.A. Odigwe, whose name appeared on the report, confirmed his laboratory did not issue any report to Blessing CEO.
Mbara said she shared her report to help Blessing CEO but was shocked to see it altered and used to support the influencer’s claims. “I thought I was helping someone in need, not knowing she had another agenda,” she said.
Some Nigerians, including Nollywood actress Georgina Onuoha, have called for legal action after learning that donations totaling about N13 million were raised through the cancer claims. Blessing CEO has insisted she would not apologise, saying she is not a medical professional and the confusion was a “possible miscommunication.”
The NCS urged relevant authorities to investigate to protect the public and maintain trust in cancer support efforts. Donors are demanding refunds, and the public continues to call for accountability.
