Controversial cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, finds himself embroiled in yet another scandal. This time, he has made explosive claims regarding his interactions with officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a viral audio clip released by activist Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan, Bobrisky alleged that certain unnamed EFCC operatives accepted a bribe of N15 million from him to drop money laundering charges that had been leveled against him.
This shocking revelation comes on the heels of Bobrisky’s recent legal troubles. In April, he was sentenced to six months in prison by a Federal High Court in Lagos after pleading guilty to a charge of Naira abuse brought forth by the EFCC. After serving his sentence, he was released on August 5, but the resurfacing of these bribery allegations has once again thrust him into the public eye, stirring debates about the integrity of the legal processes in Nigeria.
In the recorded conversation, Bobrisky claims that he paid the bribe to certain EFCC officials to have the money laundering allegations, which were initially included in his charges, dropped. The audio also reveals that he allegedly served his prison term in a flat situated close to the correctional facility, a claim he attributes to the influence of one of his mentors who supposedly spoke to the prison authorities in Abuja.
Adding fuel to the fire, Bobrisky further alleged that popular rapper Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, attempted to assist him in securing a presidential pardon through his father, Femi Falana, SAN, in exchange for N10 million. This assertion has raised eyebrows and led to increased scrutiny of the relationships between public figures and legal authorities.
Bobrisky’s Denial of the Claims
In a swift response to the uproar generated by the viral audio, Bobrisky took to his Instagram account to categorically deny the allegations. He claimed the audio was fabricated, asserting that he did not bribe any EFCC officials to dismiss the money laundering charges against him. “My attention has been drawn to a fake voice recording circulating on the internet that I paid EFCC 15 million naira and that I was never in prison,” he wrote, emphasizing that he served his term fully and urging his followers to disregard any misleading information.
EFCC’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
Prior to Bobrisky’s denial, the EFCC had already announced the establishment of a team of investigators to probe the bribery allegations. EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale confirmed that the commission had formally invited both Bobrisky and VeryDarkMan to appear at its Lagos Directorate to assist in uncovering the truth behind these serious allegations.
Falz Responds to the Allegations
Falz wasted no time in addressing the claims made in the viral audio regarding his involvement. He released a letter demanding an apology from VeryDarkMan, firmly stating that he had never initiated contact with Bobrisky. In the letter, he clarified that on May 4, 2024, Bobrisky reached out to him, seeking a conversation, under the pretext of needing legal advice regarding his Naira abuse charges. However, during the call, Bobrisky allegedly asked for financial assistance of N3 million to pay officials for favorable treatment within the correctional facility—a request Falz rejected.
Falz expressed his disappointment, noting that Bobrisky’s publication was reckless and damaging to his reputation. He emphasized that the insinuations made in the audio were completely unfounded and aimed at tarnishing his image.
Government and Legal Association Reactions
In light of the escalating situation, the Nigerian government has called for a thorough and unconditional investigation into the alleged bribery and corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, issued a statement condemning any form of indiscipline or unprofessionalism within the correctional system, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for corruption.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) also expressed serious concern regarding the allegations. In a statement, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described the situation as disturbing and commended the EFCC for its decision to investigate. The NBA called for an independent investigation led by the Attorney General of the Federation and the office of the National Security Adviser to determine whether bribery was a common occurrence in influencing charges against defendants.
The legal body asserted that transparency in the investigation process is vital to maintaining public trust in the legal system. They urged the public to refrain from making hasty judgments about the individuals involved until a thorough investigation is completed.
As this scandal unfolds, the implications for those involved could be significant, raising broader questions about corruption, ethics, and the integrity of the legal system in Nigeria. The public will be watching closely to see how both Bobrisky and the EFCC navigate this complex situation, and whether trust can be restored in the processes that govern justice in the country.
