Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okuneye, pleaded guilty to a 4-count charge of abuse of the naira and money laundering at the Federal High Court, Lagos on April 5, 2024[1][2][3]. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had originally arraigned Bobrisky on a six-count charge, but before the charge was read to the defendant, the EFCC's prosecution counsel, Suleiman Suleiman, prayed the court to strike out counts five and six (money laundering charges) and arraigned him on counts one to four[1]. The court granted the prayer and struck out counts five and six, and Bobrisky was arraigned on counts one to four to which he pleaded guilty.
The case against Bobrisky arose from a video report of him spraying and flaunting wads of new Naira notes at the premiere of a movie, Ajakaju, produced by Eniola Ajao, a Nollywood actress and producer, at Film One Circle Mall, Lekki, Lagos on March 24, 2024[1]. The EFCC invited Bobrisky following the report and detained him since Wednesday night[1]. The crossdresser failed to meet the administrative bail offered to him on Thursday.
The court convicted Bobrisky following his guilty plea and reserved the sentence until April 9, ordering that he be remanded in custody of the EFCC until then[2][3]. The EFCC had charged Bobrisky with six counts of abuse and money laundering, and the court convicted him following his guilty plea
In his plea for mercy, Bobrisky told the court he is a social media influencer with five million followers and that he was not aware of the law against spraying the naira[2][3]. He said he wished to be given a second chance to use his platform to educate his followers about the law[2][3]. The defence counsel begged for a non-custodial sentence for the defendant, but the court reserved judgement until April 9 and ordered that he be remanded in EFCC custody pending judgement[2][3].
The case against Bobrisky highlights the importance of respecting the Nigerian currency and the laws against its abuse. The EFCC has taken a strong stance against the abuse of the naira, and the conviction of Bobrisky sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The case also underscores the need for individuals to be aware of the laws and regulations governing financial transactions in Nigeria.