The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained why it has not arrested or opened a formal investigation into Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, amid widespread public concern over her recent cancer claims and fundraising.
The controversy began last month when Blessing announced she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and asked the public for financial support to cover surgery costs. Many Nigerians were sceptical of her diagnosis, and social media users alleged she was soliciting funds under false pretences.
In recent days, Blessing clarified in interviews that she does not have stage 4 cancer, attributing earlier reports to a misunderstanding. She said she was still awaiting further medical tests and had not started chemotherapy. She also insisted that the amount she received from the public was N13 million, not the widely circulated figure of N100 million.
Despite the public reaction, a source within the EFCC told TheCable that the commission has not received a formal petition against Blessing CEO. The anti‑graft agency said it requires a legitimate complainant to begin a probe and, if necessary, pursue a case in court.
“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 noted the need for a petitioner to act as a witness if the matter advances 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?” they asked.
The EFCC source urged anyone with evidence, including records of donations to Blessing, to come forward. “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.
The controversy has drawn reactions beyond the EFCC. Nollywood actress Georgina Onuoha has publicly called for Blessing CEO’s arrest, saying she should face consequences if her claims were false. Others who donated have also demanded refunds or raised questions about the information shared publicly.
As of this report, the EFCC has not issued a public statement on the matter, and no petition linked to Blessing CEO’s fundraising has been filed with the commission.
