NBA Calls for Urgent Investigation Into Allegations Surrounding Bobrisky’s Prosecution And Detention
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into allegations that Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, bribed Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officials to drop money laundering charges against him. The NBA’s call follows reports that Bobrisky allegedly paid ₦15 million to EFCC officers to dismiss the charges.
In a statement on Wednesday, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, commended the EFCC for its decision to launch an investigation into the claims. Osigwe emphasized that the allegations of bribery are deeply troubling, as they raise concerns about the transparency of the legal process and the integrity of law enforcement agencies.
“The investigation by the EFCC must determine whether there was any financial inducement by Bobrisky or his associates to influence the dropping of money laundering charges,” the NBA stated. “Any individual found guilty of such misconduct must face the full force of the law.”
The NBA also urged the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to clarify the conditions under which Bobrisky served his sentence following his conviction earlier this year. There are accusations that Bobrisky did not serve his time in a correctional facility, as required by law, but rather in a private apartment. The NBA insisted that, if these allegations are proven, the officers responsible should be prosecuted and dismissed.
The statement further called on the Attorney General of the Federation, the EFCC, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to investigate claims that bribes were paid to allow Bobrisky to serve his sentence outside a correctional facility and potentially secure a government pardon.
“We cannot allow convicts to serve their time in private residences or to buy their way to a pardon. Such actions undermine the credibility of our justice system,” Osigwe said.
The NBA also addressed allegations involving prominent lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, Folarin Falana, known as Falz. A viral video suggests that Folarin Falana reached out to Bobrisky, and that his father allegedly discussed the possibility of securing a presidential pardon for him. Femi Falana has strongly denied the claims.
“While the law allows convicts to apply for a presidential pardon, this process must be free from influence-peddling or unethical practices,” Osigwe added. He also called on the public to avoid drawing premature conclusions about the involvement of any individuals in the case.
The NBA reiterated its commitment to justice, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s legal and correctional systems. It pledged to monitor the ongoing investigations to ensure they are conducted fairly and impartially.
