Controversial crossdresser Idris ‘Bobrisky’ Okuneye has filed a lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Assembly, seeking N1.2 billion in damages for alleged violations of his fundamental human rights.
The case follows months of controversy, including a leaked audio recording by social media influencer Martins ‘VDM’ Otse, which alleged that Bobrisky paid N15 million to the EFCC to dismiss money laundering charges.
Allegations Against EFCC and National Assembly
Bobrisky’s lawsuit accuses the National Assembly of summoning him for an investigation based on the unverified audio recording without verifying its authenticity. He claims this caused him emotional trauma, ridicule, and threats to his safety. He also alleges the EFCC harassed him, citing incidents at the Seme border and Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where he was arrested.
The suit details multiple alleged violations, including:
- Detention and harassment by security agencies.
- Denial of his right to legal representation during investigations.
- Physical and psychological trauma caused by the actions of the respondents.
Bobrisky is demanding N200 million in damages from the EFCC for “psychotic trauma” and N1 billion from the National Assembly for violating his right to a fair hearing.
The Leaked Audio and Fallout
The controversy began with a leaked audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly admitted to bribing EFCC officials and serving a six-month jail term in a private apartment. The audio also implicated singer Falz and human rights lawyer Femi Falana in a supposed N10 million deal for a presidential pardon.
Bobrisky has denied the allegations, claiming the audio was fabricated by VDM. He has since threatened legal action against VDM for defamation.
Arrest and Health Issues
Bobrisky revealed that his arrest at the Seme border on October 21, and subsequent detention at the EFCC’s Lagos office, aggravated his health conditions. He accused the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, of orchestrating the Seme border arrest.
Despite these challenges, Bobrisky stated on November 5 that he had left Nigeria to focus on his mental health and well-being.
Claims About Financial Transactions
In addressing the leaked audio, Bobrisky clarified allegations involving a certain individual, Bintin, who allegedly gave him N4 million during his jail term. Bobrisky claimed the money was a gift, not a loan, and that Bintin’s current claims stem from a failed romantic advance.
Bobrisky recounted his dealings with Bintin, including promoting his events for free and refusing to meet him after his release from detention, which he believes fueled the backlash.
Bobrisky’s Fight for Justice
In his Instagram post accompanying the lawsuit, Bobrisky accused Nigerian security agencies of consistent disregard for human rights. He expressed hope that the international community would recognize and address these alleged abuses.
This legal battle marks another chapter in Bobrisky’s controversial public life, as he seeks to clear his name and hold institutions accountable for what he describes as harassment and rights violations.