The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has called for detailed disclosures from the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) regarding the location where crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, served his sentence.
This demand follows troubling allegations of bribery involving officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the NCoS.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe expressed concern over claims that Bobrisky may have paid ₦15 million to EFCC officers in exchange for the dismissal of money laundering charges against him.
The NBA emphasized the need for an urgent and thorough investigation to ascertain the veracity of these claims, which they deemed a significant threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
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“The allegation of bribery to reduce or drop charges is very disturbing,” Osigwe stated.
The NBA has also requested that the NCoS clarify whether Bobrisky served his sentence outside of a correctional facility and to provide transparency regarding the conditions of his confinement. Should evidence arise that he was allowed to serve his sentence unlawfully, the association insists that responsible officials be prosecuted and removed from their positions.
The NBA’s statement further highlights the need for an independent inquiry by the Attorney General of the Federation and the Office of the National Security Adviser, aiming to investigate any potential misconduct involving public officials and the procedures that govern the application for presidential pardons.
“Any public official found culpable must face the full weight of the law,” Osigwe asserted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public confidence in the judicial system.
READ ALSO: Falz Denies Involvement in Bobrisky’s Legal Troubles, Says Request Was Only for Financial Help
In light of ongoing speculation involving prominent lawyer Femi Falana and his son, musician Folarin Falana (Falz), the NBA urged the public to avoid unfounded assumptions about their potential involvement in Bobrisky’s case.
While Femi Falana has denied claims regarding a possible presidential pardon application for Bobrisky, the NBA reiterated the legal legitimacy of seeking such clemency, provided it adheres to proper procedures.
“The law allows convicts to apply for a presidential pardon,” Osigwe clarified.
