The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to provide clear details regarding the sentence served by crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe also urged an independent investigation by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) into claims that Bobrisky bribed EFCC and NCoS personnel to serve his jail term outside the correctional facility.
The NBA commended the EFCC’s swift decision to launch an inquiry into allegations that its officers received ₦15 million from Bobrisky to dismiss money laundering charges. The association stressed the need for a thorough investigation into whether bribes were paid to influence the nature of charges in criminal cases.
“The allegation of bribery to reduce or drop charges is disturbing. Urgent investigation is required to ensure transparency and accountability in our judicial system,” the NBA stated.
The association further demanded that NCoS clarify whether Bobrisky served his sentence in accordance with the law and called for the prosecution of officials found guilty of any misconduct.
The NBA also addressed allegations linking renowned lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, Folarin Falana (popularly known as Falz), to the Bobrisky case. It urged the public to refrain from premature conclusions, noting that Falana has denied the claims.
The statement emphasized that while seeking a presidential pardon is a legal recourse for convicts, the process must follow due procedure and remain free from unethical practices.
The NBA vowed to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all investigations are conducted with transparency and fairness, while reaffirming its commitment to justice and the rule of law.