Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, widely known as Bobrisky, has initiated legal proceedings against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Assembly at the Federal High Court in Lagos. In the suit, marked FHC/L/CS/****/2024, Bobrisky seeks enforcement of his fundamental rights as provided under the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The application, filed by his legal team, follows allegations of harassment, defamation, and infringement of rights arising from an EFCC investigation. The investigation, linked to corruption allegations and a purported WhatsApp phone call recording shared by one Martins Vincent Otse (alias Verydarkman), has been described by Bobrisky as baseless and unauthentic.
The crossdresser is pursuing multiple reliefs from the court, including an injunction restraining the EFCC and other parties from further harassment, interference, or declaring him wanted. Additionally, Bobrisky demands compensation of N1 billion from the EFCC for alleged defamation and rights violations, as well as N200 million from the National Assembly for mental torture and stigmatization.
Bobrisky has accused the EFCC of violating his rights to privacy, fair hearing, and dignity, which are enshrined in the Constitution. He highlighted the public ridicule, threats, and humiliation he endured due to the EFCC's actions, further alleging that his right to legal representation was denied during a panel investigation on September 30, 2024. He also criticized the EFCC for failing to authenticate the defamatory material before initiating the investigation.
The legal documents submitted by Bobrisky emphasize the breach of his constitutional rights under Article 2 and 7 of the African Charter and Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution. According to Bobrisky, the actions of the respondents reflect a disregard for the principles of justice and human rights protection, compelling him to seek redress through the courts.
This case underscores growing concerns about the balance between investigative powers of institutions and the fundamental rights of individuals in Nigeria. The outcome of this high-profile legal battle could set a significant precedent for similar cases in the future.
