Popular Nigerian social media personality Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, pleaded guilty on Friday to a four-count charge of naira abuse brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Bobrisky arrived at the Federal High Court in Lagos facing six charges, but the prosecution dropped the last two related to alleged money laundering after discussions with the defence.
The remaining charges centred on videos posted by Bobrisky on social media that showed him spraying and stepping on naira notes. According to Nigerian law, such actions disrespect the national currency and are punishable by a fine or imprisonment.
Bobrisky, appearing contrite in court, pleaded guilty to the charges and apologised for his actions.
“I am a social media influencer with a large following,” he stated, “and I take full responsibility for my actions. I was not aware of the laws regarding the proper handling of the naira. I will use my platform to educate my followers about respecting our currency.”
Bobrisky also pleaded for leniency, saying “I will not repeat it, my lord. I regret my actions, my lord. I am a first-time offender.”
Justice Abimbola Awogboro acknowledged Bobrisky’s apology but stressed that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. She adjourned the case until 9th April 2024 for sentencing and remanded Bobrisky back into EFCC custody.
The EFCC announced on Thursday that Bobrisky was taken into custody on Wednesday after he honoured an invitation by the anti-graft agency over some videos where he was seen misusing the naira.
“When he honoured the invitation, the defendant was shown a video where he was spraying money…He confirmed that he was the one in the video,” EFCC Assistant Superintendent, Mr Bolaji Temitope, told the court on Friday.
According to Temitope, their investigation suggests this was not an isolated incident. Bobrisky is suspected of similar actions at other events.
The EFCC has recently intensified its efforts to curb the abuse of the naira, and Bobrisky’s case is seen as a high-profile example. The outcome of his sentencing is likely to be closely followed by Nigerians, particularly those active on social media.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
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