renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana has vehemently denied allegations that his son, rapper Folarin Falana (Falz), negotiated a presidential pardon for controversial cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky. The denial comes amidst a swirling controversy involving claims of corruption within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Correctional Service.
On a crisp Thursday evening, October 3, 2024, the usually bustling streets of Lagos took a backseat to the drama unfolding on national television. Femi Falana, his weathered face etched with determination, addressed the allegations head-on during a live interview on Channels TV.
“Bobrisky never spoke to me. I have never met him. I do not know him from Adam,” Falana stated emphatically, his voice carrying the weight of his decades-long reputation as a crusader for justice. The seasoned lawyer’s eyes flashed with indignation as he continued, “He was alleged to have spoken to my son, Folarin (Falz).
At the heart of this controversy lies a viral video released by social media personality Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan. In the video, Otse played a recorded conversation allegedly featuring Bobrisky’s voice, claiming that the Falanas had attempted to secure a presidential pardon for the cross-dresser in exchange for a hefty sum of ₦10,000,000.
The allegations sent shockwaves through social media, with fans and critics alike questioning the integrity of the Falana family. VeryDarkMan, known for his controversial takes on societal issues, didn’t mince words. If these claims about the Falanas are true, they would lose the respect I have for them,” he declared in his video, his words echoing across various platforms.
As the sun set over Lagos, casting long shadows across the city, Femi Falana took to the airwaves to set the record straight. With the precision of a seasoned attorney, he dismantled the allegations piece by piece.
According to Falana, the truth was far from the sensational claims circulating online. “My son said this guy (Bobrisky) was appealing to people for assistance and called my son on May 4 or thereabout this year,” he revealed. The lawyer then dropped a bombshell: “He said, ‘Can you give me ₦3 million to be placed in a special part of the prison we call it VIP section.’
In a move that speaks volumes about the Falana family’s integrity, Falz reportedly shut down Bobrisky’s request immediately. Femi Falana recounted his son’s response: “Are you calling me under the authorization of the superintendent of prisons? He said no. Then Falz said, ‘Don’t call me again. I’m unable to assist you to bribe the prison authorities.'”
The elder Falana emphasized that his son has never negotiated fees on behalf of anybody, his voice filled with paternal pride and professional integrity.
As the controversy raged on, the EFCC found itself in the eye of the storm. Bilikisu Bala, head of the EFCC’s prosecution team, stepped forward to address the allegations of bribery within the commission.
Standing before the House of Representatives committee investigating the matter, Bala’s voice rang clear through the hallowed chambers. It is laughable for anyone to attribute the commission’s decision to drop the charges to monetary issues,” she stated, her words punctuated by the soft murmurs of the assembled lawmakers.
Bala went on to explain that the EFCC had legally dropped the money laundering charges against Bobrisky because they could not sustain them, not due to any underhanded dealings.
As the dust settles on this explosive situation, Femi Falana has made it clear that he’s not taking these allegations lying down. The human rights lawyer has threatened to institute legal action against VeryDarkMan, describing his actions as “infantile radicalism.
We will make him a deterrent to other social media users who use their platforms to defame people,” Falana declared, his words serving as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with social media influence.
As this story continues to unfold, it serves as a poignant reminder of the power of social media and the importance of fact-checking in the digital age. The Bobrisky saga has not only put the spotlight on the operations of the EFCC and the correctional system but also raised important questions about the role of influencers in shaping public opinion.
In the coming days and weeks, all eyes will be on the courts as Femi Falana potentially pursues legal action against VeryDarkMan. This case could set a precedent for how allegations made on social media platforms are handled in the Nigerian legal system.
As night falls over Lagos, the city buzzes with speculation and debate. One thing is certain: this story is far from over, and its implications could reverberate through Nigerian society for years to come.
