The House of Representatives Committee tasked with investigating corruption allegations against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) is scheduled to visit the Lagos offices of both agencies on Monday, October 21, 2024.
This visit aims to gather firsthand information and assess the operations of these bodies in light of the ongoing allegations.
The committee’s inquiry underscores the commitment to transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s law enforcement and correctional systems.
This investigation and visit follows claims made by crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, which were revealed in a phone conversation released by social media influencer Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan.
The Chairman of the committee, Ginger Onwusibe, has confirmed the upcoming visit and emphasized that the committee is actively gathering additional information regarding the allegations.
On October 1, the panel conducted a questioning session with officials from both the EFCC and NCoS, as well as Otse, concerning claims that Bobrisky allegedly paid ₦15 million to have money laundering charges against him or her dropped.
This investigation reflects the committee’s dedication to uncovering the truth behind these serious allegations and ensuring accountability within the involved agencies.
Bobrisky was convicted on April 5, 2024, and sentenced to six months in prison for naira abuse. He or she regained his or her freedom on August 5, amid accusations of receiving special treatment while in custody. Following these claims, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered an investigation and suspended two senior officials at the Kirikiri custodial centers in Lagos.
During the hearing, Otse presented an audio recording in which Bobrisky claimed he or she stayed in a private apartment during his imprisonment, allegedly after paying a large sum.
The EFCC and NCoS officials denied the allegations. A week later, Otse released another audio where Bobrisky allegedly said she or he paid ₦5 million to a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to secure a federal pardon over money laundering charges.
Bobrisky reportedly said in the audio, “I’m not in prison, but I’m around there… they got me an apartment because of my godfather.”
Otse initially resisted testifying before the panel, insisting Bobrisky should also speak publicly. After discussions, he agreed to cooperate, provided Bobrisky also tells her or his side of the story.
Onwusibe, who represents Isiala Ngwa North/Isiala Ngwa South Federal Constituency of Abia State, told Punch that Bobrisky would be invited for questioning after the committee’s visit to Lagos.
“We are visiting the correctional centre in Lagos and the EFCC office in Lagos on Monday next week (October 21). After our visit, we shall resume hearing,” he said.
