- EFCC Launches Probe into Bobrisky’s N15M Bribery Claims Against Its Officers as the agency investigates allegations made by Bobrisky regarding bribery within its ranks.
- Bobrisky was previously convicted for currency abuse but denies the new bribery claims.
- The situation highlights ongoing issues related to corruption in Nigeria.
- Public trust in law enforcement agencies may be further tested due to these allegations.
Newsypeople – The recent allegations involving popular Nigerian social media personality Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, have sparked significant attention and concern regarding integrity within Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has ordered an immediate investigation into claims that Bobrisky paid N15 million to certain operatives to drop money laundering charges against him. This situation not only raises questions about accountability within law enforcement but also highlights ongoing issues related to corruption in Nigeria.
Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s entertainment scene, recognized for his bold persona as a crossdresser and social media influencer. Born on August 31, 1991, he gained fame through his engaging online presence and controversial statements.
However, his life took a legal turn when he was convicted in April 2024 for abusing Nigeria’s currency laws, resulting in a six-month prison sentence. Released in August 2024 after serving his term, Bobrisky has since been embroiled in further controversy due to these new allegations.
The controversy intensified when a viral audio recording surfaced, purportedly featuring Bobrisky claiming he paid N15 million to unnamed EFCC officers to dismiss money laundering charges against him. The recording was shared by social activist Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan. In this conversation, Bobrisky suggested that his financial dealings were manipulated by corrupt officials within the EFCC, raising serious concerns about bribery within a commission designed to combat such practices.
PRESS STATEMENT
— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) September 24, 2024
Olukoyede Orders Investigation of N15million Bobrisky’s Allegations against EFCC Officers
Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede has ordered immediate investigation of alleged bribery allegations imputed to… pic.twitter.com/Dpa99E8L9P
In light of these serious allegations, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede swiftly responded by constituting a team of investigators tasked with examining the claims made by Bobrisky.
The commission has publicly invited both Bobrisky and Otse to its Lagos Directorate to assist in unearthing the truth behind these bribery allegations. Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the EFCC, emphasized that the commission is committed to integrity and professionalism while assuring Nigerians that a thorough investigation will be conducted.
In response to the allegations, Bobrisky took to social media to vehemently deny any wrongdoing. He labeled the audio recording as fake and asserted that he did not bribe any EFCC officials. In his statements, he reiterated that he served his prison sentence fully and dismissed claims suggesting otherwise as falsehoods aimed at tarnishing his reputation. His denial adds another layer of complexity to an already convoluted situation.
The public reaction has been mixed, with many expressing skepticism about both Bobrisky’s claims and the integrity of the EFCC itself. This incident underscores broader concerns regarding corruption within Nigerian institutions tasked with upholding justice and accountability.
The implications could be far-reaching for both parties involved; for Bobrisky, it may affect his public image further, while for the EFCC, it poses a challenge to its credibility as an anti-corruption body.
Also Read:Â Cubana Chief Priest Donates Food and Cash to Widows and Disabled
