Social media influencer Blessing Okoro, known as Blessing CEO, says she lied about having breast cancer to raise money from the public. In interviews reported by multiple outlets, she portrays the decision as driven by financial pressure and the expectation of public backlash and embarrassment if the fundraising story was questioned.
Outlets also describe how her claims triggered controversy, including criticism tied to her fundraising efforts. One outlet adds that she says she received N13 million in donations rather than a higher figure widely circulated, and that a businessman later raised concerns about refunds. Blessing CEO further says she did not have “stage 4” breast cancer, and that a check-up reportedly found a lump that was not cancerous.
Across coverage, the common thread is her confession that she did not have cancer, along with explanations of what she says she knew at the time and how she said she presented her situation to attract empathy and donations. The outlets largely differ in how much detail they provide about the donation amounts and the related refund dispute.
