- Legal Action Initiated Following Controversial Audio Recordings Alleging Bribery and Pardon Requests
Human rights activist and lawyer Femi Falana, alongside his son, Folarin Falana—better known as the artist Falz—have formally demanded a public apology and retraction of defamatory statements made by popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, commonly known as Bobrisky. The allegations stem from audio recordings that have circulated online, which they claim contain false information about their involvement in bribery and pardon requests.
Allegations Made by Bobrisky
In recordings shared by controversial media critic Martin Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, Bobrisky alleged that he had approached Falz for assistance in persuading his father to secure a presidential pardon. He claimed this effort required a payment of N10 million. Additionally, Bobrisky alleged that he asked Falz for N3 million to receive special treatment at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
In another audio, he stated that he had paid N5 million to a Senior Advocate of Nigeria to help secure a Federal Government pardon amid charges filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Legal Response from Falana’s Team
In a letter dated October 14, 2024, issued by Falana’s legal representatives, Olorunfemi Akinyemi and Taiwo E. Olawanle, Bobrisky was accused of making unfounded and damaging statements about both Falana and Falz. The letter called for a full retraction and public apology to be shared across all platforms where the statements were made.
The letter stated, “We are Counsel to Mr. Femi Falana SAN and Mr. Folarin Falana aka Falz, on whose behalf we write this letter regarding your slanderous statements against them.” It detailed Bobrisky’s alleged attempts to extort money from the public and included claims that he falsely represented conversations with Falz.
Denial of Allegations
Falana’s legal team firmly denied the allegations, asserting that no such conversations had ever occurred. They stated that Bobrisky had misrepresented interactions in an attempt to extort money from the public while tarnishing Falana’s reputation.
The letter emphasized, “Your decision to involve our client in your criminal activities was purely a figment of your imagination.” It further clarified that Falana had never spoken to Bobrisky regarding any pardon requests.
Call for Immediate Action
Falana’s lawyers demanded an immediate retraction of the defamatory statements and a prominently aired apology. They warned that failure to comply within 12 hours would result in legal action, including claims for monetary damages.
Court Ruling on Defamation
In a related development, the Lagos State High Court ordered VeryDarkMan to remove all defamatory comments and videos concerning Falana and his son from his social media platforms. The court ruled that the publications made by VeryDarkMan in September 2024 linking Bobrisky to Falz and Femi Falana were defamatory and harmful to their public image.
The unfolding situation between Femi Falana, his son Falz, and Bobrisky highlights the serious implications of defamatory statements in the public arena. As legal proceedings move forward, the demand for accountability and truth remains at the forefront of this controversy.
