Popular social media influencer and cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, famously known as Bobrisky, has been sentenced to six months in custody for the abuse of the Nigerian currency, the naira. The verdict was delivered by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Bobrisky’s legal troubles began when he was charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with multiple counts of naira abuse and money laundering. The charges stemmed from incidents where Bobrisky was seen spraying and flaunting wads of new naira notes at various social events.
During the trial, Bobrisky pleaded guilty to the charges, admitting to tampering with large sums of Nigerian currency during social gatherings. The judge, after convicting him, emphasized that the sentence was intended to serve as a deterrent to others who engage in similar acts of abusing the national currency.
The court proceedings also saw the prosecution striking out two counts of alleged money laundering against Bobrisky, focusing instead on the charges related to naira abuse. Despite the plea for leniency, Bobrisky was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment without the option of a fine.
Prior to the sentencing, Bobrisky was asked to reveal his gender by the judge, to which he promptly responded that he is a man. This detail became a part of the court record before the verdict was handed down.
The legal ordeal for Bobrisky began when he was detained by the EFCC for questioning after a video of him spraying naira notes at a movie premiere went viral. The EFCC revealed that their investigation uncovered additional instances of Bobrisky’s involvement in similar acts at various events.
Bobrisky’s detention and subsequent trial attracted significant attention, with many closely following the legal proceedings and awaiting the court’s decision. The announcement of his six-month jail sentence sent shockwaves through social media platforms, sparking discussions and debates among netizens.
See Also: EFCC Releases Nigerian Socialite, Cubana Chief Priest Detained Over Money Laundering
While Bobrisky’s legal team may explore avenues for appeal, the verdict stands as a reminder of the consequences of abusing the national currency. The case has also ignited conversations about the need for the rules to apply across board as many public figures have been known to engage in the same offense for which the sentence has now been handed down.
As Bobrisky begins his prison term, it’s not clear the impact that this will have on social media and pop culture circles. However, the court’s decision underscores the importance of upholding the integrity of the nation’s currency and the rule of law.
With Bobrisky’s sentencing, the EFCC claims that its efforts to combat financial crimes and uphold the laws governing the nation’s economy is on course. It also believes that the case serves as a cautionary tale for individuals and influencers alike, highlighting the repercussions of engaging in illegal activities, especially those that undermine the country’s financial system.
We shall be looking out for other such convictions, given how wide spread this practice is among politicians and other public figures.