Popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, has called on human rights lawyer Femi Falana and his son, Folarin (popularly known as Falz), to hold media critic Martin Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, accountable for the defamatory content circulating on social media.
Bobrisky clarified that he never paid Falana or his son any money to secure a presidential pardon during his legal troubles.
His response comes after Falana and Falz demanded a public apology and retraction of defamatory statements Bobrisky allegedly made in audio recordings shared online.
In one of the audio clips shared by VeryDarkMan, Bobrisky claimed to have spoken with Falz, asking for his help in persuading his father to secure a presidential pardon, allegedly at the cost of ₦10 million. Bobrisky also claimed to have asked Falz for ₦3 million to ensure special treatment at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
In another audio, Bobrisky alleged that he paid ₦5 million upfront to a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in an attempt to obtain a Federal Government pardon for charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
However, in a letter dated 14 October 2024, Falana’s legal representatives, Olorunfemi Akinyemi and Taiwo E. Olawanle, accused Bobrisky of making false and defamatory statements involving both Falana and his son in the alleged bribery scheme. The legal team demanded a complete retraction and apology, to be published on all platforms where the claims were circulated.
In his response, Bobrisky stood firm, insisting he never paid Falana or his son any money for a pardon and argued that the person who shared the defamatory content should be held responsible.
“I, Okuneye Idris aka Bobrisky, didn’t give Falz or his dad any money for a pardon. In fact, not a penny was given to them. I’ve said this before and will say it again. The person who published the audio online should take full responsibility for what he posted publicly.
“My lawyer will address any further inquiries the public may have regarding this issue trending on social media,” Bobrisky stated on his Instagram story on Wednesday.
In a separate post, he added, “Regarding the two letters in circulation from the Falanas’ law firm, I’d like to clarify for the record—and pending an official response from my lawyer—that I, Okuneye Idris Olarewaju aka Bobrisky, did not publish any defamatory statements concerning the learned SAN and his son, Falz. Per my solicitor’s letter dated 27th September 2024, I have denied any knowledge of what VDM published.
“I reiterate my denial and urge that anyone defamed should hold the publisher of the content responsible. My fundamental right to privacy in my communications should be respected and protected. Best.”
