The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for an urgent investigation into allegations surrounding the prosecution and detention of Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Idrinstitute.jpg")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/School-of-Alternative-Dispute-Resolution-SADR-1.jpg")
This comes after a video surfaced claiming that some EFCC officers allegedly received ₦15 million from Bobrisky to drop money laundering charges against him.
In a statement released by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the association commended the EFCC for launching a timely investigation into the bribery allegations. “An urgent and thorough investigation is needed to determine whether bribes were paid or are sometimes paid to influence the nature of charges brought against defendants in criminal cases,” Osigwe said.
The NBA also demanded transparency from the Nigerian Correctional Service regarding the conditions under which Bobrisky served his sentence. The statement questioned whether Bobrisky was allowed to serve his time outside a correctional facility, in breach of the law. The NBA called for any officers found responsible for such a breach to be prosecuted and dismissed.
The association further urged the Attorney General, EFCC, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to independently investigate claims that Bobrisky paid a bribe to serve his sentence in a private residence and potentially procure a presidential pardon.
The NBA expressed particular concern about allegations involving respected legal practitioner Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, Folarin Falana, Esq. (aka FALZ). The video alleged that the younger Falana reached out to Bobrisky, and his father discussed the possibility of a presidential pardon. However, the NBA noted that Femi Falana has denied these allegations.
While acknowledging that applying for a presidential pardon is a legitimate legal recourse, the NBA emphasized that the process must follow due procedure and be free from unethical practices. The association urged the public to refrain from premature conclusions regarding the Falanas’ alleged involvement.
The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law, vowing to monitor the investigations closely to ensure transparency and fairness. The association called for calm while the probes are carried out, assuring the public of its vigilance in the matter.
