Bobrisky: Why EFCC should be ashamed of themselves – Chidi Odinkalu

Chidi Odinkalu, the former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, has condemned the recent arrest of Nigerian crossdresser Bobrisky by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), labelling it as an abuse of power.

Bobrisky, also known as Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye, was apprehended at Pinnock Estate in Lagos State on Wednesday, April 3, and taken into custody at the EFCC’s Lagos command office.

The EFCC, in an official statement on Thursday, disclosed that Bobrisky was under investigation for allegedly spraying Naira notes at a movie premiere.

The incident reportedly occurred at the ‘Ajakaju’ movie premiere, produced by Nollywood actress Eniola Ajao, on March 24, 2024.

Reacting to the arrest, Odinkalu took to social media platform X, expressing his dismay over the situation.

He criticized the EFCC for misusing its power of arrest and prosecution, stating that such authority should not be wielded against individuals based on personal preferences.

Odinkalu highlighted the irony of the situation, pointing out that amidst the recent hike in electricity tariffs by the government, the EFCC’s focus on Bobrisky seemed misplaced.

He emphasized that blaming Bobrisky for societal issues such as poverty and economic challenges was unjustified.

In his post, Odinkalu wrote, “The @officialEFCC should be ashamed of themselves. The power of arrest & prosecution is a public trust that shd not be weaponized for the persecution of those whom they don’t like. It is either @officialEFCC is evidently idle or this is clear #AbuseOfPower.”

He further added, “Ystday, @NigeriaGov & @NERCNG hiked energy beyond the reach of most #Nigerians. Today, @officialEFCC orchestrates a lynching of #Bobrisky.

“Ppl who can no longer afford electricity are hailing them because, apparently Bobby is responsible for their poverty. Bobrisky is responsible for rigging ur elections; corrupting ur courts; looting ur Treasury; sending the Naira sky-high; recruiting & paying #BokoHaram & the bandits. He must be the problem with #Nigeria.”