Blessing CEO Used Another Patient’s Cancer Report to Seek Donations – NMA

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Delta State chapter, has alleged that popular social media personality Blessing Okoro, widely known as Blessing CEO, presented a falsified cancer report belonging to another patient in a bid to solicit public donations.

In a statement that has stirred widespread public reaction, the association disclosed that the histology report circulated online to support Blessing CEO’s claim of battling breast cancer was not originally issued to her, but rather to a different patient whose identity has been linked to one Deborah Mbara.

According to the NMA, investigations revealed that the original medical report was issued in May 2025 at a diagnostic facility in Asaba, Delta State, following a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer. However, the version shared by Blessing CEO was allegedly doctored and altered, with her personal details inserted to give the impression that she was the patient in question.

The association further noted that the diagnostic centre referenced in the document has denied issuing any such report in Blessing CEO’s name, reinforcing claims that the document in circulation is not authentic.

The controversy deepened after the alleged original owner of the report, Deborah Mbara, publicly accused the influencer of using her medical record without consent. She described the act as distressing and unethical, raising concerns over privacy violations and the misuse of sensitive health information.

Blessing CEO had earlier taken to social media to announce that she was battling stage 4 breast cancer, a claim that generated sympathy and reportedly attracted financial support from members of the public. However, she later retracted the stage 4 diagnosis, attributing it to a “miscommunication,” while acknowledging that she received significant monetary donations during the period.

Reacting to the development, the NMA warned that falsification of medical records is a serious ethical and legal issue that could erode public trust in healthcare systems and professionals. The association urged Nigerians to exercise caution and verify medical claims, especially those tied to public fundraising campaigns.

The incident has also drawn the attention of the Nigerian Cancer Society, which has called for a thorough investigation into the matter. The group expressed concern that such allegations could undermine genuine cancer awareness efforts and discourage public support for legitimate patients in need.

Observers note that the case highlights growing concerns around accountability in online fundraising, particularly involving influencers with large followings. Legal experts suggest that if the allegations are proven, the matter could lead to charges related to fraud, impersonation, and violation of patient confidentiality laws.

As of the time of filing this report, Blessing CEO has yet to issue a detailed response to the specific allegations raised by the NMA and the alleged victim.

Blessing CEO Used Another Patient’s Cancer Report to Seek Donations – NMA

Women in Plateau Block Burial of 28 Palm Sunday Attack Victims Over Arrests

Residents of Angwan Rukuba in Jos, Plateau State, were left in shock on Tuesday as a funeral service for victims of the Palm Sunday attack was disrupted by protesting women demanding the release of detained youths. The attack, which occurred on Palm Sunday, claimed the lives of at least 28 people, leaving several others injured.

The protesters, many armed with leaves and chanting songs, blocked the entrance to the church where the mass burial was scheduled, insisting that the burial could not proceed until authorities freed three youths reportedly arrested following the killings. Rhoda Aliyu, one of the women leading the protest, said, “We will not allow the burial to take place until our sons are released.” Another protester, Mathew Bulus, added, “Those arrested are innocent. The government should go after the real perpetrators and leave our youths alone.”

The demonstration heightened tensions as about seven bodies were brought to the church. Community sources confirmed that the women, supported by several youths, were calling for the unconditional release of the detained teenagers before proceeding with the burial.

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The Palm Sunday attack involved armed assailants—suspected bandits—who stormed Angwan Rukuba and the Gari Ya Waye neighborhoods around 8 p.m., firing indiscriminately at residents and leaving widespread devastation.

President Bola Tinubu, who visited Plateau State following the attack, expressed condolences and directed security agencies to apprehend the offenders. He also ordered the installation of over 5,000 AI-enabled CCTV cameras across the state to enhance 24-hour surveillance and prevent future attacks.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who had visited the affected areas, condemned the killings as a well-planned attempt to destabilize the state. He assured residents that justice would be served and urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to collaborate with security forces to restore peace. He also commended the people for maintaining calm and avoiding retaliation despite the provocation.

As of press time, security agencies had not responded publicly to the arrests or ongoing tensions. The protest underscores the deep frustration and fear among residents in bandit-affected communities in Plateau State, highlighting ongoing challenges in securing vulnerable areas and ensuring justice for victims.

Women in Plateau Block Burial of 28 Palm Sunday Attack Victims Over Arrests

Security Forces Deployed as Bandits Kill Three Residents in Niger Communities

At least three residents have been killed and several others injured after armed bandits attacked the Lanta, Tunga, and Bagna communities in the Erena ward of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. The attacks, which began around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, mark another deadly incident in the region’s growing insecurity crisis.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants arrived in large numbers on motorcycles, operating for several hours without resistance, looting properties and opening fire on residents before fleeing. Local sources warned that the death toll could rise as families continue to account for missing relatives. Many residents have reportedly fled to Erena town, considered a safer nearby settlement.

A local resident said, “So far, we have recovered three bodies. Many others sustained injuries of varying degrees. Many people have fled… We are calling on the government to come to our rescue.”

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Maurice Bello Magaji, Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, confirmed the incident and stated that the government is working with security forces to respond to the attacks and restore order. Officials say reinforcement teams and patrols have been deployed to the affected communities to prevent further casualties.

The attack highlights the deepening insecurity in rural Niger State, where armed bandits have frequently targeted villages, abducted residents, and caused widespread fear. Analysts note that bandits often exploit the remote terrain to carry out raids with minimal resistance, killing civilians, looting homes, and displacing populations.

Local leaders and residents have condemned the attacks, urging both state and federal authorities to intensify security measures and protect vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, displaced residents face uncertainty as they seek safety and access to basic services.

Security agencies have promised to track down the perpetrators, but analysts warn that sustained and coordinated action is necessary to curb banditry in Niger State and prevent further attacks.

Security Forces Deployed as Bandits Kill Three Residents in Niger Communities