Court throws out Bobrisky’s lawsuit against EFCC, N’Assembly

A Federal High Court in Lagos, has thrown out a fundamental rights suit filed by a popular Nigerian crossdresser, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, against the National Assembly and the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

As reported by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the lawsuit was dismissed on Thursday.

A judgment delivered by Justice Alexander Owoeye dismissed Bobrisky’s claims of rights violations, citing a lack of credible evidence.

The EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Dele Oyewale, stated, “having assessed the evidence provided by the Applicant, the Court concludes that he has failed to furnish credible evidence necessary to grant the declaratory and injunctive relief he seeks.

“The claims of fundamental rights violation against the 1st and 2nd Respondents are unsupported by the affidavit evidence presented to the court.”

“The Court finds that the Applicant’s claims against the 1st and 2nd Respondents are without merit and therefore dismisses them.”

Justice Owoeye turned down Bobrisky’s request for damages against the EFCC, dismissing his fundamental rights enforcement suit due to lack of merit.

Earlier development

Bobrisky has been at the center of controversy following the release of an audio recording by Martins Otse, alleging that he bribed the EFCC with N15 million to dismiss money laundering charges.

Despite denying the allegations, Bobrisky failed to honour the EFCC’s invitation, sparking further controversy surrounding the bribery scandal.

On October 10, 2024, Bobrisky claimed the EFCC caused him “psychotic trauma” and sought N200 million in compensation, while also demanding N1 billion from the National Assembly for allegedly denying him a fair hearing.

The crossdresser asked the court to restrain the EFCC and National Assembly from taking any further action against him, including harassment, detention, or declaring him wanted.

On November 1, EFCC agents intercepted Bobrisky at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, stopping him from departing on a KLM flight to Amsterdam.

About Bobrisky

Bobrisky, whose real name is Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, is a Nigerian social media personality, influencer, and entrepreneur.

He is known for his bold and flamboyant lifestyle, as well as his controversial statements and actions.

Early Life and Career of Bobrisky

He was born on August 31, 1992, in Lagos, Nigeria, and studied Accounting at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

He started his social media career on Snapchat and Instagram.

Rise to Fame

Okuneye gained popularity for his outspoken and provocative content, becoming Nigeria’s first male “crossdresser” or “transgender” celebrity.

He collaborated with brands and influencers, leveraging his large following on social media.

Bobrisky’s Controversies and Criticisms

Idris has been criticized for promoting “immoral” behavior and “indecency” and accused of “confusing” Nigerian youth with his lifestyle.

He was arrested in 2019 for alleged “cross-dressing” and “disrupting public peace”.

Business Ventures of Bobrisky

The “shemale” launched his own makeup line, “Bobrisky Beauty”, partnering with fashion brands and beauty companies.

Personal Life

He openly identifies as gay, despite Nigeria’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws, claiming to have undergone gender reassignment surgery.

He has been involved in high-profile feuds with other celebrities.

Impact and Legacy

Bobriky sparked conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance in Nigeria.

(S)he inspired a new generation of Nigerian influencers and content creators, remaining a polarizing figure, with both admirers and detractors.

Bobrisky is particularly famous for her bold personality and unique style, which has garnered her a large following.

Recently, Bobrisky has been in the news due to legal issues and allegations of bribery involving Nigerian prison officials.

Despite these controversies, she continues to maintain a significant presence on social media, where she shares updates about her life and engages with her fans.

Awards and Recognition

In 2020, Bobrisky won the “Best Social Media Influencer” at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and received the “Influencer of the Year” at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards in 2022.

Interviews and Podcasts

The shemale has been featured in “The Bobrisky Interview” by Pulse Nigeria, “Bobrisky on Identity, Family, and Fame” by BBC Podcast, and “Bobrisky: Unfiltered” by the Nigerian Voice.

Social Impact

The crossdresser breaks gender norms and challenges traditional Nigerian values, inspires self-expression and confidence among young people, and sparks conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.

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