Bobrisky and VeryDarkMan: Reps Probe Bribery Allegations Against EFCC and NCS
House of Reps Initiates Probe into Allegations of Bribery
The Nigerian House of Representatives has launched an investigation into bribery allegations against two critical law enforcement agencies, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS). The allegations were brought to light by Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, a social media influencer, who accused the EFCC of receiving N15 million to drop charges against Nigerian socialite and influencer, Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky.
Social Media Influencer VeryDarkMan Makes Damning Accusations
Martins Otse (VeryDarkMan) made headlines when he alleged that the EFCC had accepted a bribe from Bobrisky to dismiss money laundering charges. VeryDarkMan further claimed that, after Bobrisky was convicted for defacing the Naira, he did not serve his time at the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), as mandated by the court, but was instead lodged outside the confines of the correctional facility. These allegations have sparked a public outcry and heightened scrutiny of the operations of Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies.
Rep Patrick Umoh Calls for Investigation in Plenary
Rep Patrick Umoh, representing the Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, took the lead on this issue by sponsoring a motion during Thursday’s plenary session. Umoh expressed deep concern over the potentially damaging effect of these allegations on Nigeria’s image. He emphasized the need to address the issue promptly to preserve the credibility of the EFCC and the NCS.
The Alleged Bribery and Corruption Case Against the EFCC
Rep Umoh recounted the allegations made by VeryDarkMan, highlighting that the publication accused the EFCC of dropping money laundering charges against Bobrisky after receiving a N15 million bribe. He also questioned the integrity of the NCS, which was implicated in the alleged illegal lodging of Bobrisky outside of their facility after his conviction for defacing the Naira. According to Umoh, such allegations, if true, paint Nigeria in a negative light internationally as a country grappling with systemic corruption.
Concerns Over Nigeria’s Reputation
Umoh underscored the reputational damage these allegations could cause, particularly as Nigeria continues to work on improving its global standing and fighting corruption. He stressed that the claims made by VeryDarkMan should not be ignored, as they undermine the work of key institutions like the EFCC and NCS, which were established to combat financial crimes and enforce the rule of law. He added that any negligence in addressing such issues would further solidify Nigeria’s negative image abroad.
Investigation Referred to Committees on Financial Crimes and Reformatory Institutions
After the motion was presented, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, who presided over the plenary session, referred the investigation to the Committees on Financial Crimes and Reformatory Institutions. The Committees were given three legislative weeks to carry out a thorough investigation and submit their findings. This move marks the first formal action taken by the House of Representatives to address the bribery allegations.
Potential Outcomes of the Investigation
As the investigation begins, all eyes are on the Committees on Financial Crimes and Reformatory Institutions. Depending on their findings, this investigation could lead to sweeping reforms within the EFCC and NCS or even criminal charges against those implicated. Public pressure is mounting, and citizens are keen to see how the investigation unfolds and whether accountability will be enforced.
Bobrisky’s Response Amid Allegations
Meanwhile, Bobrisky has been at the center of attention on social media. Amid the allegations, Bobrisky posted and then deleted a series of Instagram stories that hinted at emotional distress, even mentioning suicide in a cryptic post. This has further fueled public curiosity about the ongoing case. Bobrisky, known for controversy, has not yet issued an official statement on the bribery allegations.
Conclusion: Scrutiny on Nigerian Law Enforcement Agencies
As the House of Representatives embarks on this investigation, the public will be watching closely. The probe promises to shine a spotlight on the operations of key Nigerian institutions, and its outcome could either restore public confidence in the EFCC and NCS or exacerbate existing doubts about the country’s ability to fight corruption effectively.
Social Media Reactions
- Nkechi Adeyemi (Twitter): “If the EFCC is really taking bribes, where’s our hope? Investigate thoroughly! #Corruption #Nigeria”
- David Akin (Facebook – Nigeria): “Bobrisky bribing EFCC? This case is too hot to ignore. Let’s hope they find the truth. #Justice #Nigeria”
- Alex Winters (LinkedIn – USA): “Corruption allegations in Nigeria’s law enforcement again? The world is watching. #EFCC #Accountability”
- Linda Ifeanyi (Instagram): “Bobrisky can’t keep getting away with things because of money. We need justice. #EFCC #VeryDarkMan”
- Simi Olatunde (WhatsApp): “VeryDarkMan is really standing up against corruption. Hope the government will act. #NigeriaCorruption”
- Michael Thompson (Facebook – UK): “Interesting to see if these bribery allegations will lead to any reforms in Nigeria. #EFCCInvestigation”
- Ngozi Okafor (Telegram): “The EFCC is supposed to fight corruption, not be part of it! Serious questions need answering. #NigeriaPolitics”
- Chinwe Emeka (Twitter): “Bobrisky at the center of another scandal! Can’t wait to see how this plays out. #BriberyAllegations”
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