Controversial figure Okuneye Idris, popularly known as Bobrisky, could find himself spending the Eid-il-Fitri break behind bars.
Bobrisky was apprehended on April 3 and subsequently convicted by a Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday, April 5, 2024, after admitting guilt to charges of currency abuse brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC lodged a six-count indictment against Bobrisky, with the initial four counts pertaining to currency abuse and the final two counts relating to alleged money laundering.
Ahead of the formal reading of the charges, the EFCC prosecutor sought the dismissal of counts five and six.
Bobrisky confessed to the four-count charge of currency abuse but appealed for leniency, asserting ignorance of the laws governing currency usage and promising to educate his social media followers about it.
“I am a social media influencer with over five million followers. I would create a video on my page to educate people about the act of spraying money. I will not repeat it, My Lord. I regret my actions, My Lord. I am a first-time offender,” he stated.
Consequently, Justice Abimbola Awogboro slated April 9, 2024, for sentencing and ordered Bobrisky to remain in EFCC custody until then.
However, on Sunday, the Federal Government declared Tuesday and Wednesday, April 9 and 10, 2024, as public holidays to commemorate the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this announcement through a statement issued by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Aishetu Ndayako.
Investigations revealed that Bobrisky’s sentencing, scheduled for April 9, coincides with the Eid-il-Fitri holiday, raising doubts about whether the proceeding will take place unless Justice Awogboro opts to convene for sentencing on Monday.
It appears likely that the controversial figure will spend his holiday period in detention.