The Nigerian entertainment scene has been rocked by allegations that controversial cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, avoided serving a six-month jail sentence at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre by residing in an apartment arranged for him during the sentence.
Earlier this week, social media personality Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), released a voice recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed he was housed in an apartment instead of prison. Bobrisky further alleged that rapper Folarin Falana, aka Falz, was involved in attempts to secure a presidential pardon for him.
### Bobrisky’s Arrest and Sentence
Bobrisky was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in April 2024 on charges of money laundering and Naira mutilation after spraying cash at an event in Lagos. In court, Justice Abimbola Awogboro sentenced him to six months in prison, which began on March 24, 2024. However, Bobrisky resurfaced in public on August 5, sparking rumors that he had not actually served time in prison.
### Controversial Claims and Allegations
VDM accused Falz and his father, human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), of being part of an effort to secure a pardon for Bobrisky. In the audio recording, Bobrisky allegedly recounted how he was taken to an apartment near the prison instead of being incarcerated. He also claimed that EFCC officials accepted a bribe of N15 million to drop money laundering charges against him.
Bobrisky was reportedly told to stay hidden in the apartment until his sentence was completed.
### Falz Responds
In response to the allegations, Falz, through his legal team, denied any involvement with Bobrisky. Falz confirmed that Bobrisky contacted him seeking financial help for better prison conditions but stated he did not assist. Falz issued a 24-hour ultimatum to VDM to retract the claims or face legal action.
### EFCC and Government Reactions
The EFCC has since launched an investigation into the bribery allegations, inviting both Bobrisky and VDM to assist in the probe. Additionally, the House of Representatives and the Ministry of Interior have expressed shock and announced separate investigations into the matter.
Two officers from the Kirikiri Correctional Centre have been suspended while investigations continue.
### Bobrisky’s Reaction
Following the controversy, Bobrisky took to social media to deny the allegations, stating that he served his sentence in full and did not bribe anyone. His conflicting statements and actions, including a celebratory party upon his release, have left many questioning the truth behind the claims.
As the investigations unfold, the public awaits the outcome, while the scandal continues to stir debate over corruption and justice in Nigeria.
