The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for an urgent and thorough investigation into the alleged ₦15 million bribe Bobrisky allegedly paid to some officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to drop money laundering charges against him.
Social media influencer Martin ‘VeryDarkMan’ Otse recently posted a leaked audio on his Instagram page, in which Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okuneye, allegedly claimed that EFCC officials accepted ₦15 million in exchange for dismissing his charges.
Bobrisky, also allegedly stated in the recording that, despite being sentenced to six months in prison by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos for Naira mutilation, he served his term in a private apartment.
The New Daily Prime gathered that Bobrisky’s sentence commenced on March 24 and he was released on August 5.
In a statement by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, the NBA emphasised the importance of investigating these allegations to determine whether bribes were indeed paid to influence the nature of criminal charges.
The association underscored that such an inquiry is vital to maintaining public trust in the legal process and in ensuring that justice is properly served.
The NBA also commended the swift response of the EFCC in initiating an investigation into the bribery claims involving its officers.
The association noted that the accusations raise serious concerns about the integrity of the legal process and that the investigation will help test the transparency and credibility of both the anti-graft agency and the procedures for charging defendants in court.
“The investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should determine whether or not there was any financial inducement by Bobrisky or anyone on his behalf in exchange for the dropping of money laundering charges against him. Any person found complicit must face the full weight of the law.
“The NBA acknowledges that all individuals and institutions accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. However, we insist that a swift and thorough investigation be carried out to establish the truth. If any public official is found culpable, appropriate legal actions must be taken to hold them accountable.”
The NBA demands that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) not only address the allegations surrounding Bobrisky’s sentence but also provide a full, transparent account of the conditions under which he served his time.
The NBA stated that if it is established that Bobrisky was allowed to serve his sentence outside of a correctional facility—contrary to the law and court orders—those responsible, including officers and officials, must be prosecuted and dismissed from service.
Additionally, the NBA calls on the Attorney General of the Federation, the EFCC, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to conduct independent investigations into allegations that a bribe was paid to allow a convict to serve time in a private residence rather than in a correctional facility.
The association further urged an inquiry into claims that a bribe was solicited in exchange for a government pardon.
“The suggestion that convicts can freely serve their time in private residences and potentially procure a pardon by paying a bribe undermines the very foundation of our criminal justice system and erodes public confidence in the system. We believe that this investigation will provide the individuals named in these allegations the opportunity to clarify their roles (if any) in this matter.
“If these allegations are found to be true, it would not only mock our correctional system but also serve as a wake-up call for necessary reforms in our prosecutorial and correctional processes. The NBA shall appoint eminent members of the legal profession to monitor this situation and ensure that due process is followed.
“The NBA is especially concerned with the allegation involving one of Nigeria’s foremost legal luminaries, Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, Folarin Falana, Esq. (aka FALZ). The video claims that Mr. Folarin Falana reached out to Bobrisky, and his father, Femi Falana, SAN, allegedly discussed the possibility of applying for a presidential pardon for Bobrisky. We note that Femi Falana SAN has denied this allegation.
“It is important to note that the law allows convicts to apply for a presidential pardon under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). This provision empowers the President to grant pardons to individuals convicted of offenses, subject to certain conditions and upon the recommendation of the Council of State.
“The NBA acknowledges that applying for a presidential pardon is a legitimate legal recourse available to any convict, as stipulated by law. However, it is crucial to clarify that such a process must follow due procedure and be devoid of any form of influence peddling or unethical practices.
“Femi Falana, SAN, is a highly respected legal practitioner known for his integrity and long-standing commitment to human rights and justice. He has denied the allegation against him. The Nigerian Bar Association urges the public to refrain from making premature conclusions regarding Mr. Falana’s or, indeed, any person’s alleged involvement in these matters.
“The Nigerian Bar Association reiterates its commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law. We will continue to support all efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and correctional systems. We also call for calm and restraint while investigations are carried out, and we assure the public that we will monitor these investigations closely to ensure they are conducted in a transparent and unbiased manner.”
