Alleged Bribery Scandal: House of Reps Summons EFCC Chairman, Bobrisky, and Influencer ‘Very Dark Man’

In response to rising allegations of bribery against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the House of Representatives has taken decisive action. The Joint Committees of the House have extended a formal invitation to EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyode, to appear before them, along with the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and all involved officers.

The investigation, scheduled for September 30th, 2024, is in reaction to a viral voice recording implicating the EFCC and NCoS in a bribery scandal. The recording suggests that Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, allegedly paid ₦15 million to avoid charges of money laundering and secure preferential treatment during his prison sentence. The crossdresser, who was convicted earlier this year for the abuse of the naira, is said to have spent time in a VIP facility rather than a standard prison cell.

The committee has also summoned Bobrisky and social media influencer Martins Otse, known online as “Very Dark Man,” who initially released the explosive voice recording.

Falana Family Denies Bribery Allegations

In a parallel development, Folakemi Falana, daughter of prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, has strongly denied any involvement of her family in the bribery scandal. The rumors, spread by influencer Very Dark Man, claimed that Femi Falana and his son, musician Falz, were complicit in helping Bobrisky receive lenient treatment during his imprisonment.

Folakemi refuted these claims in a social media post, accusing the influencer of defamation. She emphasized that neither her father nor her brother had any communication with Bobrisky. According to her, Bobrisky had only approached Falz for financial assistance during his prison term, which Falz declined.

EFCC Launches Internal Investigation

In a swift response to the allegations, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has initiated an internal investigation into the claims. In a statement released by the agency, both Bobrisky and influencer Very Dark Man have been summoned to assist with the probe.

Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, announced, “The Commission invites both Okuneye and Otse (Very Dark Man) to make themselves available at its Lagos Directorate to assist investigators in unearthing the truth behind these allegations.”

Nigerian Bar Association Demands Action

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has weighed in, urging the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to conduct an independent investigation into the alleged ₦15 million bribe. The NBA, in a statement by its president, Afam Osigwe, called for the dismissal and prosecution of any EFCC officers found guilty.

The association also called on the Nigerian Correctional Service to clarify whether Bobrisky served his sentence in a correctional facility or received special treatment, as alleged. The NBA stressed that any breach of the law by allowing a convict to serve time in private accommodations undermines the country’s judicial system.

“We believe that these allegations should be thoroughly investigated, and if found to be true, reforms should be implemented to prevent such abuses of power in the future,” the NBA’s statement concluded.

The NBA also plans to appoint a team of legal experts to monitor the investigation and ensure due process is followed.