The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC apprehended cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, on charges of currency mutilation and the abuse of naira notes.
According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale who confirmed the arrest on their official X handle, astating that Bobrisky was taken into custody in Lagos on Wednesday, 3rd April 2024.
“He (Bobrisky) was apprehended Wednesday night in Lagos,” stated the official from the anti-graft agency. “He is currently detained at our Lagos Office and will be brought before the court.”
Bobrisky has made headlines for various controversial incidents, including receiving the “Best Dressed Female” Award at a movie premiere on March 25, 2024, a decision that sparked criticism among many in the entertainment industry.
In response to the social uproar, Force Spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi asserted that there is no legal provision for the arrest of crossdressers in Nigeria.
“I have not come across any law that considers cross-dressing an offense in Nigeria,” he remarked during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on April 2, 2024.
“Let us apply reason; you cannot detain someone you intend to prosecute without substantial evidence. Cross-dressing is not yet a criminal act in Nigeria.
“”Some individuals accused of cross-dressing are allegedly involved in other illegal activities, which is where the issue lies. We require substantial evidence linking them to such activities. These offenses are punishable under Nigerian law.”
Adejobi emphasized the need for concrete proof linking cross-dressers to illicit activities.
Story: Christy Dung
Credit: EFCC/X