Controversial cross-dresser Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, has allegedly disclosed in a leaked audio recording that he paid ₦5 million to a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in an attempt to secure a pardon from the Federal Government for money laundering charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In the audio, which surfaced on Monday, October 7, 2024, Bobrisky claimed that the SAN initially demanded ₦10 million, but he was unable to pay the full amount due to his bank accounts being frozen by the EFCC. “I’m supposed to finish my sentence by July, but if we get the amnesty, I could be out by the first week of next month,” Bobrisky allegedly said in the recording. He further explained, “The SAN asked for ₦10 million, which I could have transferred, but my account is frozen. My godfather gave me ₦5 million, and we sent it to the SAN two weeks ago. He has already submitted the pardon request.”
The audio was leaked by popular social media influencer Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), who shared it with his followers. VDM claimed that the call was recorded on May 16, 2024, raising eyebrows and sparking widespread conversations on social media.
According to the leaked audio, Bobrisky expressed hope that the SAN’s intervention would expedite his release from the charges he is currently facing. The cross-dresser has had several brushes with the law in the past, but this latest allegation about bribing legal professionals to manipulate the system has drawn significant public attention.
In response to the allegations, prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, categorically denied any involvement with Bobrisky. Falana clarified that he has never had any direct dealings with the cross-dresser and that Bobrisky only communicated with his son, Folarin Falana, better known as the popular musician and activist Falz. Falana emphasized his professional ethics and stated, “I have no connection with this matter. Bobrisky has never consulted me or sought legal counsel from my firm.”
Despite Falana’s swift denial, the revelation in the leaked audio has raised questions about the integrity of some legal professionals involved in securing controversial pardons or settlements. Bobrisky’s claim that he made a substantial payment to a SAN has led to public speculation on whether money can influence the legal system, particularly in cases involving high-profile individuals.
As news of the audio spread, social media erupted with reactions. Many users voiced their outrage over the alleged attempt to manipulate the judicial process, while others expressed skepticism about the authenticity of the audio, questioning whether it was part of a wider conspiracy or personal vendetta against Bobrisky.
Bobrisky, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and social media presence, has often courted controversy. His legal battles with the EFCC over money laundering charges have been ongoing, and this latest leak adds another layer of intrigue to the case. The EFCC has yet to release an official statement regarding the leaked audio, but sources suggest that the commission is closely monitoring the developments.
Public reaction has been mixed, with some criticizing the alleged corruption within the legal system and others questioning Bobrisky’s credibility. “It’s sad if true that someone can pay their way out of justice,” one social media user commented, while another stated, “We need to investigate this thoroughly before jumping to conclusions.”
