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By Oscar Okhifo
Popular Nigerian influencer and relationship therapist, Blessing Okoro, fondly called Blessing CEO has pushed back against growing demands for refunds and calls for the public disclosure of her medical records following a fundraising campaign for her reported cancer treatment.
The controversy stems from her January announcement, in which she disclosed that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and subsequently appealed to the public for financial assistance to support her surgery and treatment.
The appeal attracted sympathy and donations from supporters across social media.
However, the fundraising effort also sparked skepticism among some members of the public, with critics questioning the authenticity of her claims.
This has since fuelled heated debates online, with divided opinions over whether the campaign was genuine or driven by ulterior motives such as engagement and financial gain.
As suspicion grew, some social media users intensified calls for her to provide medical documentation to verify her diagnosis.
The demands have, however, been condemned by others who argue that such requests are unethical and constitute an invasion of privacy.
Responding to the backlash, Okoro firmly dismissed calls to release her medical records, insisting that her health status is a private matter that should not be subjected to public scrutiny simply because she received donations.
“I will not post my cancer results online to satisfy anyone,” she was quoted as saying, maintaining that she is under no obligation to disclose her personal medical information.
She further stressed that the donations she received were voluntary and not tied to any enforceable conditions, adding that contributors gave in good faith and cannot now impose demands for refunds.
Okoro also rejected calls for repayment of the funds, noting that the money had already been committed to her treatment and related medical expenses.
According to her, the backlash reflects a broader culture of mistrust on social media, where public figures are often subjected to harassment and pressured to provide personal proof of sensitive issues.
She called on critics to respect her privacy and allow her focus on recovery, even as the controversy continues to divide opinion across online platforms.
Reacting through her X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram accounts, Okoro reiterated her position, insisting that she will not release hospital records or diagnostic reports to satisfy public curiosity.
She maintained that her medical condition remains private and urged the public to desist from further harassment as discussions around the fundraising campaign persist.