Lanre Idris Mustapha
Controversial cross-dresser, Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, alleged that he paid N5 million to a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to help secure a Federal Government pardon for money laundering charges filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a newly leaked voice recording, Bobrisky stated that the counsel had initially requested N10 million but he could only provide half the amount because the EFCC had frozen his bank account.
The recording was shared by social media influencer Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, on October 7, 2024. The conversation, reportedly recorded on May 16, 2024, revealed that Bobrisky’s godfather stepped into cover the initial N5 million payment.
In the voice note, Bobrisky disclosed that his godfather had also arranged for him to stay in a furnished apartment near the prison, instead of being held in custody, due to safety concerns.
Bobrisky clarified that, contrary to public belief, he was not in prison but was living nearby under special arrangements.
He said, “I’m not in prison, but I’m close by. Thanks to my godfather, I was spared from prison. The Deputy Controller agreed to let me stay nearby as long as I remain silent and don’t post anything.”
He also mentioned that the SAN was working on a pardon that could result in his release by the first week of next month, although the full N10 million payment had yet to be made due to his frozen account.
Bobrisky further explained that he was kept out of a male prison facility to avoid possible harassment. His godfather, along with the Nigerian Correctional Service, arranged for him to stay in a private residence as long as he kept a low profile.
This new claim follows an earlier accusation by Bobrisky that EFCC officers had demanded and received N15 million to drop the charges. He also alleged that human rights lawyer Femi Falana was involved in negotiating a presidential pardon for ₦10 million.
