The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate serious allegations involving crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.
This call comes after claims that Bobrisky paid a bribe of ₦15 million to secure special treatment during his prison sentence.
The allegations suggest that he may have paid to serve his sentence at a private residence instead of a correctional facility.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, the President of the NBA, emphasized the importance of a thorough and independent investigation.
He requested the involvement of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
“The investigation should determine whether or not there was any financial inducement by Bobrisky or anyone on his behalf,” Osigwe stated.
He stressed that anyone found complicit in these matters should face the full weight of the law.
The NBA also addressed allegations concerning Femi Falana, a highly respected legal practitioner known for his commitment to human rights.
The association urged the public not to rush to conclusions about Falana or anyone else’s involvement in these allegations.
They emphasized that the integrity of the legal profession must be upheld during this investigation.
“The NBA acknowledges that all individuals accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty,” Osigwe noted.
However, he insisted on the necessity for a swift and thorough inquiry.
Osigwe demanded that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) respond to allegations that Bobrisky did not serve his sentence in a correctional facility.
He called for transparency regarding the conditions of Bobrisky’s incarceration.
“If it is proven that he was allowed to serve his sentence outside a correctional facility, the responsible officers must be prosecuted and dismissed,” he stated.
The NBA believes that if such actions occurred, they would undermine the foundation of the criminal justice system in Nigeria.
The allegations regarding Bobrisky’s case raise serious concerns about the potential for corruption within the Nigerian correctional system.
The notion that convicts could serve their time outside of prison, or procure pardons through bribes, could significantly erode public confidence in the justice system.
“The suggestion that convicts can freely serve their time in private residences and potentially obtain a pardon through bribery undermines our criminal justice system,” Osigwe warned.
He expressed hope that this investigation would allow individuals named in the allegations to clarify their roles, if any, in the matter.
The NBA plans to appoint eminent members of the legal profession to monitor the situation and ensure that due process is followed.
Osigwe emphasized the importance of ensuring that the investigation is transparent and unbiased.
The ongoing situation not only affects those involved but also has broader implications for the integrity of Nigeria’s legal and correctional systems.
The NBA has also expressed concern regarding the allegations involving Femi Falana and his son, Folarin Falana, known as FALZ.
The claims suggest that Folarin reached out to Bobrisky, and Femi Falana allegedly discussed applying for a presidential pardon for Bobrisky.
Femi Falana has publicly denied these allegations, stating, “I have not engaged in any discussions regarding Bobrisky’s case.”
Under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, convicts can apply for a presidential pardon.
This provision allows the President to grant pardons to individuals convicted of offenses, subject to certain conditions and upon the recommendation of the Council of State.
The NBA recognizes that applying for a presidential pardon is a legitimate legal process but insists that it must be free from any form of unethical practices or influence peddling.
The NBA reiterated its commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
“We will continue to support efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and correctional systems,” Osigwe stated.
The NBA also called for calm and restraint as investigations are carried out.
