Celebrity crossdresser Idris Okuneye, more commonly known as Bobrisky, has appeared at a Federal High Court in Lagos for arraignment on a six-count charge related to money laundering and naira mutilation.
He was detained after failing to meet bail requirements following his arrest on Thursday.
The spokesperson for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Dele Oyewale, confirmed Bobrisky’s appearance before Justice Abimbola Awogboro at the Federal High Court in Lagos.
EFCC prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo, along with seven other lawyers, has filed charges against Bobrisky. Four of the counts pertain to Naira abuse, while the remaining two involve alleged money laundering.
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Bobrisky has been a contentious figure in the Nollywood industry, particularly after receiving the “Best Dressed Female” award, causing division among actors.
The controversy arose when Bobrisky was honored at the premiere of the movie ‘Ajakaju: Beast of Two Worlds’ by filmmaker and actress Eniola Ajao, with Femi Adebayo announcing the award.
The premiere, attended by industry stakeholders such as Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Sola Sobowale, Regina Chukwu, Denrele Edun, Wumi Toriola, Jumoke Odetola, Adekola Tijani, and others, later sparked controversy questioning Bobrisky’s suitability for the honor.
The charges against Bobrisky include “tampering with the sum of N400,000 by spraying it while dancing at a social event at the IMAX Circle Mall, Lekki, Lagos, on March 24, 2024,” contravening Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.
“In count two, Bobrisky, between July and August 2023 at Aja Junction, Ikorodu, also tampered with another sum of N50,000 by spraying the same at a social event while dancing.
“In count three, Bobrisky, in December 2023 at White Steve Event Hall, Ikeja also sprayed and tampered with another sum of N20,000 while dancing.
“Count four also accused Bobrisky of spraying and tampering with another sum of N20,000 while dancing at another event in Oniru, Victoria Island.
“In count five, Bobrisky, while trading under the name and style of Bob Express between 1 September 2021 and 4 April 2024 in Lagos, failed to submit to the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering a declaration of the activities of the said company, (Bob Express), within which period the total sum of N127. 7m was paid into the company account domiciled with Ecobank.
“In count six, Bobrisky is also accused of failing to submit a declaration of the activities of the company within the same period when another N53 million was paid into the company’s account, thereby committing an offense contrary to Section 6(1)(a), and Section 19(1) (f) of the Money Laundering (Prevention And Prohibition) Act and punishable under Section 19 (2) (b) of the same Act.”
If convicted of money laundering, Bobrisky might be imprisoned for a term of not less than four years but not more than fourteen years or a fine not less than five times the value of the proceeds of the crime or both.
For naira abuse, this is technically an offense as the notes then fall to the ground where they can be trodden on.
The maximum punishment is six months in jail however prosecutions are rare.