Popular Nigerian crossdresser and social media personality, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, widely known as Bobrisky, has criticised members of the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives for failing to act swiftly in response to the recent wave of violence in Benue State.
In a post shared on his Instagram story on Monday, Bobrisky expressed frustration over what he described as misplaced priorities by Nigerian lawmakers. He accused them of showing more urgency in handling his legal matters than addressing the ongoing killings in the North Central state.
“They held urgent meetings over me, but not Benue”
Bobrisky recalled how legislators had allegedly acted quickly when his legal troubles were in the spotlight. He compared their response to his case with their silence on the recent attacks in Benue, where many lives have been lost to violent clashes and suspected attacks by armed groups.
“Senators and House of Reps members did not call an urgent meeting over the killings happening in Benue,” he wrote.
“But they could hold an emergency meeting when it came to Bobrisky. Shame, shame!!! Shame!!! What a shameful country,” he added.
The strongly-worded statement has sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians echoing his sentiment and questioning the government’s apparent lack of concern over the growing insecurity in parts of the country.
A look back at Bobrisky’s legal drama
Earlier in 2024, Bobrisky made headlines after being arrested and charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges were linked to the abuse of the Nigerian currency, commonly known as naira mutilation.
Specifically, Bobrisky was accused of spraying and mishandling naira notes at a social event, an act considered a violation under Nigerian law. He pleaded guilty and was convicted.
The case generated widespread attention across media platforms, with many Nigerians debating the severity of the punishment and whether it was enforced fairly. While the court handed down a sentence, later reports revealed that Bobrisky did not serve time in a traditional Nigerian prison.
This revelation further fueled public discussions about privilege, selective justice, and how certain cases receive more attention from authorities than others, especially when it involves celebrities or public figures.
Anger grows over Benue killings
Bobrisky’s outburst comes amid growing anger and despair over continuous attacks in Benue State. The state has been battling deadly violence for years, often involving herdsmen, armed militias, and communal clashes. Villages have been razed, lives lost, and thousands displaced.
Despite the recurring tragedies, critics say there has been little political will to bring lasting peace to the region. Security agencies remain overstretched, and communities often feel abandoned by the central government.
Many Nigerians are calling for stronger action from federal lawmakers, including urgent security interventions, public debates on solutions, and support for the victims.
Social media as a platform for protest
Bobrisky, who has millions of followers online, used his platform to shine a light on what he sees as hypocrisy within the political class. While often known for his lifestyle posts and controversial image, the crossdresser has occasionally used his voice to comment on social issues.
By speaking out on the Benue crisis, Bobrisky joins a growing list of celebrities and public figures who are using their influence to demand accountability from Nigeria’s leaders.
Call for leaders to refocus priorities
The message behind Bobrisky’s rant was clear: Nigerian lawmakers must reassess their priorities. For him and many others, the lives lost in Benue should matter more than a celebrity’s court case.
As insecurity spreads and public trust in government continues to wane, many Nigerians hope that such bold criticism will force the nation’s leaders to act before more lives are lost.
Read Also: Bobrisky changes name, embraces new identity
