Controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has taken legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Assembly, demanding ₦1.2 billion in damages.
The legal drama stems from allegations of rights violations, a leaked audio recording, and controversies surrounding his detention and alleged bribery scandals.
Bobrisky filed the lawsuit on October 10, accusing the EFCC and National Assembly of harassing, detaining, and violating his fundamental rights.
“Psychological Trauma and Emotional Distress”
In his lawsuit, Bobrisky alleged that a WhatsApp audio recording leaked by social media influencer Martins “VDM” Otse was used by the National Assembly to launch an investigation without verifying its authenticity.
“The sole reason for the invitation of the applicant by the 1st respondent (National Assembly) was a hearsay WhatsApp phone call published by one Martins Vincent Otse (a.k.a Verydarkman), which the applicant has challenged through his counsel,” the suit read.
He claimed the National Assembly’s actions caused him emotional trauma, public ridicule, and threats from unknown individuals.
“The invitation violated my rights, exposed me to threats, ridiculed me on social media, and subjected me to psychological trauma,” Bobrisky stated in court filings shared on Instagram.
N1.2 Billion Demand
Bobrisky is demanding ₦200 million from the EFCC for “psychotic trauma” and ₦1 billion from the National Assembly for allegedly violating his right to a fair hearing.
He argued that the EFCC and other security agencies acted unlawfully in detaining him, stating that they “consistently disregard human rights and freedom.”
Leaked Audio Sparks Controversy
The controversy began when a leaked audio recording alleged that Bobrisky paid ₦15 million to the EFCC to drop money laundering charges against him.
In the recording, he also purportedly claimed to have served a six-month jail term in a private apartment and accused singer Falz and his father, Femi Falana, of requesting ₦10 million for a presidential pardon.
Bobrisky denied the authenticity of the audio and labeled it defamatory.
“This is nothing but an attempt to tarnish my reputation,” he said.
Escape, Arrest, and Alleged Harassment
Amid the controversy, Bobrisky was arrested at the Seme border on October 21 while attempting to leave Nigeria.
He was later rearrested on November 1 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport while boarding an Amsterdam-bound flight.
Bobrisky accused the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, of ordering his arrest, which he claimed worsened his health.
“The EFCC violently assaulted and harassed me without any court order,” he said.
“I Was Betrayed by Someone I Trusted”
Bobrisky also addressed the leaked audio, revealing his strained relationship with Martins Otse, known as VDM.
In a now-deleted Instagram post, he denied the bribery allegations and accused Otse of using their friendship for blackmail.
“VDM published the audio to tarnish my name because I refused his advances,” Bobrisky alleged.
He explained that VDM once gifted him ₦4 million during his detention but later claimed it was a loan.
“He gave me the money willingly, but when I refused to date him, he started demanding it back,” Bobrisky stated.
“I Am a Victim of Falsehood”
In a detailed account of his relationship with VDM, Bobrisky alleged that the influencer had pursued him romantically since 2017.
“When I refused his advances, he became bitter and started spreading lies,” he said.
Bobrisky also accused VDM of fabricating stories to gain public attention.
“This is a calculated attempt to destroy my image. I have always stood for truth, and I won’t let lies prevail,” he added.
Public Outcry and Mixed Reactions
The legal battle has sparked mixed reactions, with some Nigerians criticizing Bobrisky while others defend his right to seek justice.
Human rights activists have also weighed in, calling for a fair investigation into the allegations against the EFCC and National Assembly.
“It is important to uphold the rule of law and ensure that everyone’s rights are respected,” a lawyer familiar with the case said.
The Fight for Justice
Bobrisky insists he is determined to clear his name and expose what he calls “the corruption and abuse of power” within Nigeria’s institutions.
“I am not just fighting for myself but for anyone who has ever been oppressed by those in power,” he declared.
