The House of Representatives on Monday questioned officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) over allegations that the agencies were bribed by controversial cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, following his conviction for abuse of the naira in April 2024.
During the hearing, both agencies denied the allegations. The EFCC refuted claims that Bobrisky paid N15 million to have money laundering charges against him dropped, while the NCoS insisted Bobrisky served his sentence at Kirikiri Maximum Correctional Centre, not in a private apartment as alleged.
Bobrisky was convicted in April and sentenced to six months in prison. However, social media influencer Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, released an audio recording last week where Bobrisky allegedly claimed he avoided serving time in prison with the help of a “godfather” and N15 million in bribes. These claims prompted an investigation ordered by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, leading to the suspension of top NCoS officials.
Appearing before the House, the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Michael Anugwa, explained that Bobrisky was kept in a separate cell due to “special features” like breasts, aligning with global practices. Anugwa also clarified that Bobrisky’s transfer to Kirikiri was for security reasons, denying any preferential treatment outside of correctional facilities.
The EFCC, represented by Chief of Staff Ola Olukoyede, defended the commission’s actions, stating that Bobrisky’s money laundering charges were dropped after he pled guilty in his statement, dismissing any bribe allegations.
The investigation is ongoing, with the House demanding further evidence from the accusers. The session was adjourned indefinitely, with officials and witnesses expected to appear at the next hearing.
