Controversial cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, filed an appeal on Monday to challenge a six-month prison sentence handed down by a Federal High Court in Lagos State.
Bobrisky had been charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with four counts related to naira abuse. He pleaded guilty to the charges before Justice A.O. Awogboro at the Federal High Court in Lagos.
On April 12, Justice Awogboro sentenced Bobrisky to six months in prison without the option of a fine, emphasizing that the punishment should deter others from engaging in similar abuse of the Nigerian currency.
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However, Bobrisky’s legal counsel, Mr. Bimbo Kusanu, filed a notice of appeal, asking the Court of Appeal to overturn the maximum sentence and replace it with an option of a N50,000 fine on each count.
Kusanu argued that the maximum sentence was excessive, especially given that Bobrisky had no prior criminal record. He cited the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), which allows for lesser penalties, suggesting that the judge’s decision was punitive and did not consider the appellant’s cooperation during the investigation or the guilty plea, which saved the court’s time.
The counsel further stated that the trial court failed to properly exercise its discretion, leading to a miscarriage of justice against Bobrisky. He highlighted that Bobrisky responded to the EFCC’s invitation on the first request and cooperated throughout the process, suggesting that a lighter sentence would have been more appropriate.
