The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for full disclosure regarding where Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, served his sentence. The NBA has demanded that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) provide details to clarify suspicions that Bobrisky might not have served his time at an official correctional facility.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Afam Osigwe, President of the NBA, urged for an independent investigation involving the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF). This investigation would determine if Bobrisky bribed officials at the EFCC and NCoS to serve his sentence outside a correctional center.
The NBA expressed concerns following allegations that Bobrisky paid ₦15 million to some EFCC officers to have money laundering charges dropped. The NBA commended the EFCC’s decision to launch an investigation but emphasized that any form of bribery to reduce or dismiss charges is a serious issue that undermines Nigeria’s judicial system. If found guilty, the individuals involved must face the consequences of their actions.
“The allegations of bribery are disturbing and warrant a thorough investigation. Such actions weaken public confidence in our criminal justice system,” the NBA stated.
The association demanded that the NCoS provide clear evidence about where Bobrisky served his jail term. If Bobrisky was allowed to serve his sentence outside a correctional facility in violation of the law, those responsible should be prosecuted and dismissed from service. The NBA further called on the EFCC, NSA, and AGF to investigate claims that bribes were paid to secure favorable treatment or a presidential pardon for Bobrisky.
Additionally, the NBA addressed rumors involving renowned lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, and his son Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz. The allegations suggested that Femi Falana discussed the possibility of a presidential pardon for Bobrisky, while Falz was accused of involvement in the case. However, Femi Falana has strongly denied these claims, and the NBA urged the public to avoid drawing premature conclusions.
The NBA pointed out that while the law allows convicts to apply for a presidential pardon under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution, the process must adhere strictly to legal protocols without any influence or corruption.
“Femi Falana, SAN, is a respected legal figure known for his integrity and dedication to human rights. We call for calm and patience while investigations are conducted,” the NBA said.
The NBA assured that it would monitor the investigations closely, reiterating its commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
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