Self-styled relationship and mental health coach, Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, has stated that she sees no reason to apologise amid growing backlash over her controversial breast cancer claim.
Speaking in an interview with social media personality Egungun of Lagos, shared on Instagram on Saturday, Okoro dismissed allegations that she falsely claimed to have stage four cancer. She also addressed donation reports, clarifying that she received N13 million, contrary to viral claims suggesting she raised up to N100 million.
When asked whether she owed the public an apology, Okoro responded, “For what? Who did I hurt?”
She explained that her earlier statements may have been based on information relayed to her by medical professionals, suggesting a possible miscommunication regarding the stage of her illness.
“I’m not a doctor and maybe I just passed the message that a doctor gave to me,” she said, adding that further consultations are ongoing to determine the exact stage of the disease.
According to her, comprehensive tests have been conducted, and she is awaiting confirmation from her oncologist. She also noted that chemotherapy has not commenced, stating that her most recent procedure was a biopsy.
Recounting the development of her condition, Okoro said the lump was initially considered non-cancerous but was later confirmed malignant after subsequent examinations.
She declined calls to publicly release her medical records, insisting that such information remains private.
“I can’t post my results online. It’s personal stuff,” she stated.
On treatment options, Okoro expressed hope that surgery would not be necessary but emphasised her priority is survival.
“We are hoping it doesn’t get to that point, but if it gets to that point, the most important thing is let me be alive,” she said.
Amid the controversy, she also urged women to prioritise regular breast examinations for early detection of cancer.
Her remarks come as scrutiny over her diagnosis intensifies. While her initial disclosure drew public sympathy, doubts have since emerged due to the absence of verifiable medical evidence.
A woman identified as Deborah Mbara has accused Okoro of manipulating medical documents to mislead the public.
In a related development, businessman Alafaa Kariboye-Igbo, popularly known as Oil Money, claimed he donated N20 million and has issued a legal demand seeking a refund within seven days, threatening further action if the funds are not returned.
This marks another chapter in Okoro’s history of public controversies, including a 2019 incident involving false claims of property ownership, which led to her arrest and subsequent apology.
Comments