By **Allegations of Bribery Involving Bobrisky and VeryDarkMan Spark Investigation**
Nigerian blogger Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has appeared before a House of Representatives panel, claiming that Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, bribed officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). These allegations, first raised in a viral video, suggest that Bobrisky paid ₦15 million to have money laundering charges against him dropped.
### The Allegations
VeryDarkMan alleges that Bobrisky’s ₦15 million payment was made during a court case following a widely publicized “naira-spraying” event in April. Bobrisky had been charged with money laundering after flaunting large sums of cash at a public event. According to VDM, the payment ensured the charges were dropped, and Bobrisky was instead sentenced to six months in prison. Additionally, it is claimed that Bobrisky made further payments to secure a preferential place in prison.
Bobrisky has denied all the allegations. However, both the EFCC and NCoS have initiated investigations into the claims. A House of Representatives panel, tasked with probing allegations of corruption within these institutions, summoned senior officials from the EFCC and NCoS to testify.
### Suspensions and Testimonies
As part of the investigation, several senior officers of the NCoS have been suspended. This includes Deputy Controllers of Corrections, Michael Anugwa and Sikiru Adekunle, who are accused of facilitating the preferential treatment Bobrisky allegedly received while in custody. The suspension was announced by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, which stated it was necessary “to allow for further investigation of the various allegations” and assured the public that “the outcome will be made public when concluded.”
Despite the announcement, Mr Anugwa, who appeared before the panel in his official capacity, claimed that he had yet to receive an official suspension notice. “I only heard of such on social media,” he told the panel.
### VeryDarkMan’s Evidence
During the hearing, VeryDarkMan submitted an audio recording to the House committee, which he claims is evidence of Bobrisky negotiating the bribes. The blogger revealed that the recording came from an individual to whom Bobrisky allegedly owed money. The authenticity of the recording remains a key point in the investigation.
Initially, VDM refused to address the committee, insisting that Bobrisky, who was invited but sent a lawyer in his place, should be present for the hearing. The panel, however, compelled VDM to testify under the threat of invoking legislative powers to order his arrest. Following this, the blogger complied and presented his evidence, reiterating the claims made in the viral video.
### Calls for Independent Investigation
Amid the ongoing inquiry, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for an independent investigation into the allegations. The NBA urged both the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to take action. “Given the gravity of these allegations, there is a need for an impartial, thorough investigation to ensure accountability,” the NBA stated.
### Conclusion
As investigations continue, the Nigerian public is closely watching the outcome of these allegations, which implicate high-profile figures and institutions. The House of Representatives’ inquiry is expected to provide more clarity in the coming weeks, while the NBA’s call for an independent review suggests that the case could have far-reaching implications for the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
The EFCC and the NCoS have both promised thorough investigations, while Bobrisky maintains his innocence. Whether this case will expose institutional corruption or clear the names of those involved remains to be seen.
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