Blessing CEO says N13m raised, not N100m, as donors demand refunds
Premium Times reports that social media influencer Blessing CEO (Blessing Okoro) has clarified she received N13 million in public donations—not the widely reported N100 million—for her alleged breast cancer treatment. The clarification comes as several high-profile donors, including businessman Alafaa Kariboye-Igbo ("Oil Money") who contributed N20 million, and activist Martins Vincent Otse ("VDM"), are demanding refunds and threatening legal action, alleging fraud.
Oil Money's lawyers issued a formal demand letter dated April 3, 2026, stating the donation was made under false pretenses and giving a seven-day deadline to refund N20 million or face court action, including reporting the matter to law enforcement. VDM and philanthropist King Mitchy have also publicly demanded refunds. The influencer maintains her cancer diagnosis is genuine, though she told content creator Egungun she hasn't yet determined her cancer stage and is awaiting oncologist evaluation after recent biopsy results.
Why this matters: The controversy spotlights risks of unverified online medical fundraising in Nigeria. Donors are questioning verification processes, while influencers argue voluntary contributions shouldn't require proof. This case could chill future legitimate medical appeals if trust erodes.
Blessing CEO declined to release medical records, calling them private, and rejected demands for financial accountability: "I don't need to come and start showing you receipts." She insists donations were voluntary and earned through her decade-long social media presence.
For those who donated: Document your payment details. Nigerian law allows criminal fraud charges if deception is proven, but civil refunds are harder without evidence of intentional misrepresentation. Consider pooling with other donors for collective legal action. For future appeals, verify through the treating hospital directly, use reputable fundraising platforms with vetting, and remember voluntary gifts generally can't be强制 refunded without proof of fraud. Will stricter verification requirements protect donors without harming genuine patients in need?