April 16, 2024 – Nollywood actor Alesh Sanni has openly criticized his industry peers for distancing themselves from Nigerian crossdresser Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, following his recent incarceration. In a poignant Instagram post, Sanni accused fellow celebrities of hypocrisy, noting their previous enthusiasm to associate with Bobrisky for social and promotional benefits.
Bobrisky, a controversial figure in Nigerian entertainment, was sentenced to six months in jail last Friday by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos, on charges of Naira mutilation, a conviction that came amidst other allegations, including money laundering. The arrest and subsequent sentencing were spearheaded by operatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Sanni’s remarks come at a time when Bobrisky, once a staple at celebrity gatherings and a sought-after personality for promotional campaigns, faces a stark contrast in his social standing. “Nigerian celebrities are hypocritical,” Sanni stated, highlighting the irony in how many of these celebrities have previously leveraged Bobrisky’s wide-reaching social media influence to amplify their own projects and events.
The actor’s critique sheds light on the often fickle nature of celebrity support systems, where associations are frequently driven by personal gain rather than genuine solidarity. Sanni’s bold callout invites a broader discussion on the responsibilities of public figures in supporting their peers through legal and personal battles, especially when they risk public backlash.
The post has sparked a mix of support and criticism on social media, with some applauding Sanni for his frankness, while others argue that public figures have the right to dissociate from legally contentious situations to protect their image.
As the conversation unfolds, it raises questions about the dynamics of friendship and support within the entertainment industry, especially under the scrutinizing eye of the public and media. It also highlights the complexities of navigating celebrity status alongside legal issues in a society that often enjoys sensational news but shies away from controversy when it hits closer to home.
Bobrisky’s situation and the reaction it has elicited from within the entertainment community are indicative of deeper societal norms and the challenges faced by individuals living non-conventional lifestyles in the spotlight. How this scenario develops could influence public perceptions of loyalty, support, and justice in the tightly-knit world of Nollywood and beyond.
