By Elias Nnamdi
Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has strongly denied allegations linking him to popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky. The accusations emerged from a viral video posted by blogger Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan. In the video, Otse alleged that Falana had arranged for a presidential pardon for Bobrisky in exchange for ₦10 million.
Falana, speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, firmly stated, “Bobrisky never spoke to me. I have never met him, I do not know him from Adam.” He further clarified that although Bobrisky had reached out to his son, Folarin Falana (also known as Falz), it was for a completely unrelated matter.
Falana Denounces Bobrisky Allegations
In the interview, Falana explained that Bobrisky had contacted Falz earlier this year, seeking assistance to be placed in a VIP section of the prison where he was serving time for a criminal offense. According to Falana, Bobrisky requested ₦3 million to facilitate this arrangement, but Falz declined. Falana went on to express dismay over how these interactions were misinterpreted, with people subsequently accusing him of involvement in bribery and corruption.
Falana described these claims as “infantile radicalism” and emphasized that neither he nor his son ever engaged in any illegal activities or discussions with Bobrisky. “Somebody has been releasing tapes somewhere to lampoon and defame me,” Falana remarked during the interview, underscoring his commitment to uphold the law and his professional reputation.
Legal Action on the Horizon
Falana, who has a long history of defending human rights and exposing corruption, mentioned his extensive work within the Nigerian correctional system. Over the years, he has helped secure pardons for 280 convicted individuals without ever accepting financial compensation.
However, in this case, Falana intends to take legal action to protect his and his family’s reputation. “We have asked for a retraction and an apology rendered to us, and that is not too much,” he stated. If such a retraction is not made, Falana plans to initiate civil proceedings against those responsible for defaming him.
He concluded by stressing that his fight is not only about his personal integrity but also about setting an example for others. He expressed concern over the rising trend of individuals using social media to defame and blackmail people without evidence or justification.
In response to issues surrounding Nigeria’s correctional facilities, Falana acknowledged that corruption within the system needs to be addressed. He welcomed the involvement of the House of Representatives in investigating the conditions in Nigerian correctional centers, highlighting his own efforts in bringing transparency to these institutions.
With this case drawing national attention, Falana’s response marks a firm stance against defamatory allegations, underscoring his dedication to upholding justice.
