News
Provide Details Of Where Bobrisky Served His Sentence – NBA To NCoS
Provide Details Of Where Bobrisky Served His Sentence – NBA To NCoS
by Tobouke JEMINE
The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has requested that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) provide details of where the crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly called Bobrisky, served his conviction sentence.
Afam Osigwe, the President of the NBA also demanded an independent investigation by the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to determine if Bobrisky bribed personnel of EFCC and NCoS to serve his jail terms outside the correctional center.
In a statement made public on Wednesday, the NBA also warned the public to refrain from linking Femi Falana and his son, Folarin Falana, known by his stage name Falz, to the Bobrisky case.
It read: “The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) commends the timely decision of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to launch an investigation into allegations that some of its officers received ₦15 million from Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, to dismiss money laundering charges against him.
“The allegation of bribery to reduce or drop charges is very disturbing. An urgent and thorough investigation is needed to determine whether bribes were paid or are sometimes paid to influence the nature of charges brought against defendants in criminal cases. This investigation will also test the transparency of the investigative process and the procedures for charging defendants in court.
“The investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should determine whether or not there was any financial inducement by Bobrisky or anyone on his behalf in exchange for the dropping of money laundering charges against him. Any person found complicit must face the full weight of the law.
“The NBA acknowledges that all individuals and institutions accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. However, we insist that a swift and thorough investigation be carried out to establish the truth. If any public official is found culpable, appropriate legal actions must be taken to hold them accountable.
“The NBA therefore demands that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) not only respond to the allegation that Bobrisky did not serve his time in a correctional facility but also provide transparent details on the conditions under which Bobrisky served his sentence. If it is proven that he was allowed to serve his sentence outside a Correctional Facility, in breach of the law and a court order, the officers and officials responsible must be prosecuted and dismissed from service.
“We also call upon the Attorney General of the Federation, EFCC, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to independently investigate allegations that a convict paid a bribe to be allowed to serve prison time in a private residence instead of in a Correctional Facility, as well as the allegation that a bribe was demanded in exchange for a government pardon. The suggestion that convicts can freely serve their time in private residences and potentially procure a pardon by paying a bribe undermines the very foundation of our criminal justice system and erodes public confidence in the system.
“We believe that this investigation will provide the individuals named in these allegations the opportunity to clarify their roles (if any) in this matter. If these allegations are found to be true, it would not only mock our correctional system but also serve as a wake-up call for necessary reforms in our prosecutorial and correctional processes. The NBA shall appoint eminent members of the legal profession to monitor this situation and ensure that due process is followed.”
It continued, “The NBA is especially concerned with the allegation involving one of Nigeria’s foremost legal luminaries, Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, Folarin Falana, Esq. (aka FALZ). The video claims that Mr. Folarin Falana reached out to Bobrisky, and his father, Femi Falana, SAN, allegedly discussed the possibility of applying for a presidential pardon for Bobrisky. We note that Femi Falana, SAN, has denied this allegation.
“It is important to note that the law allows convicts to apply for a presidential pardon under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). This provision empowers the President to grant pardons to individuals convicted of offenses, subject to certain conditions and upon the recommendation of the Council of State.
“The NBA acknowledges that applying for a presidential pardon is a legitimate legal recourse available to any convict, as stipulated by law. However, it is crucial to clarify that such a process must follow due procedure and be devoid of any form of influence peddling or unethical practices.
“Femi Falana, SAN, is a highly respected legal practitioner known for his integrity and long-standing commitment to human rights and justice. He has in fact denied the allegation against him. The Nigerian Bar Association urges the public to refrain from making premature conclusions regarding Mr. Falana’s or indeed any person’s alleged involvement in these matters.
“The Nigerian Bar Association reiterates its commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law. We will continue to support all efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and correctional systems. We also call for calm and restraint while investigations are carried out, and we assure the public that we will monitor these investigations closely to ensure they are conducted in a transparent and unbiased manner.”
Source: StarNews
By Favour Bibaikefie
Tomorrow, Friday, May 16, 2025, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone — covering Delta, Edo, and Ondo states led by Comrade Nicholas Igarama — will solemnly mark the 57th anniversary of Boro Day at Chief Tunde Smooth Playground, NPA Warri, Delta State. The event will feature a dynamic procession through the streets of Warri, followed by an insightful symposium aimed at celebrating and reflecting on the enduring legacy of Ijaw fallen hero, Major Isaac Adaka Boro.
Major Isaac Adaka Boro remains one of the most iconic figures in the history of the Niger Delta and the Ijaw nation. Born in 1938 in the Niger Delta region, Major Boro was a Nigerian nationalist, soldier, and activist who passionately championed the rights of his people long before Biafra Republic causes.
In February 1966, Major Boro declared the Niger Delta Republic — a bold and unprecedented move — in an effort to free the Niger Delta region from the exploitation and marginalization of the Niger Delta region by the Nigerian federal government in collution with multinational oil companies. Though short-lived, this declaration sparked a significant movement for self-determination, environmental justice, and economic fairness in the oil-rich region.
Boro’s armed struggle, sacrifices, and calls for equity continue to inspire generations of Ijaws and Niger Delta activists fighting for justice, resource control, and political representation.
Major Boro, who died in combat on March 9, 1968, remains a revered Niger Delta nationalist and freedom fighter.
The 2025 Boro Day Commemoration
This year’s Boro Day celebration in Warri will bring together Ijaw youths, community leaders, cultural groups, and sympathizers from across Delta, Edo, and Ondo states to honor Major Boro’s memory. The procession will wind through key parts of Warri, symbolizing unity and resilience among the Ijaw people.
Following the procession, a symposium will convene at Chief Tunde Smooth Playground, where distinguished speakers and historians will share insights on Major Boro’s impact and the ongoing struggle for the Niger Delta’s development and recognition.
While the Warri event is the focal point for the Western Zone, Ijaws worldwide will also hold events commemorating Major Boro’s sacrifice and vision, demonstrating the far-reaching influence of his legacy.
* Tompolo doesn’t spray money; he cannot be held accountable for actions of unknown individuals – Ozobo, IPDI
A leading Niger Delta activist Comrade Ozobo Austin who doubles as the National president of the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative (IPDI), has come forward to exonerate High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, from the recent allegations of monetary abuse levied by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).
The Niger Delta activist emphasized that there is no concrete evidence supporting the claims presented in the controversial and manipulative viral video that Tompolo sprayed money. He asserted that it is unjust to hold Tompolo responsible for the misdeeds of others.
Comrade Ozobo further alleged that the EFCC has been misled by individuals involved in oil theft and by naive Nigerians whose motives are grounded in envy and jealousy.
He said Tompolo who has great respect for the country’s laws will not condescend low to abuse the law, adding that it would have been better for EFCC to have looked for the unknown individuals responsible for the abuse of the naira in the viral video than dragging the innocent man to disrepute.
The Niger Delta advocate warned mischief makers to invest their time into a meaningful ventures and pursue responsible causes rather than making propaganda against the innocent Tompolo.
He emphasised that Tompolo would not respond to social media critics and unschooled individuals who take joy in manipulating fellow brothers.
Ozobo urged EFCC to be a noble organization and not to allow evil men and unscrupulous social media influencers to instigate them into commenting on unnecessary issues that were capable of threatening the fragile peace of Niger Delta.
News
Burutu LGA Chairman, Commissioner for Housing Inspect Burial Venue of Late Chief Pa Edwin Clark in Kiagbodo
By Peter Ziakegha, May 10, 2025
Kiagbodo, Burutu_The Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Julius Takeme, in company of the Delta State Commissioner for Housing and Chairman of the Burial Venue Committee, Rt. Hon. Godknows Angele, on Friday inspected the ongoing preparations at the burial venue of the late elder statesman, Chief Pa Edwin Clark, in Kiagbodo.
The visit was aimed at assessing the state of readiness of key facilities and ensuring that arrangements are in place for a dignified and well organised ceremony. The duo expressed satisfaction with the progress of work so far.
Among the areas inspected were the main burial arena, the church slated for the final funeral rites, and the designated parking space for invited dignitaries. Workers were observed mounting canopies, setting up chairs, and grading roadways to ease access to the venue.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Takeme lauded the coordination and commitment of the central planning committee. He assured that all logistics would be completed in good time to honour the legacy of the late Chief Pa Edwin Clark.
Preparations are in top gear as the community, the planning committee and the local government get set to host dignitaries and mourners from across the country for the final rites of the respected leader.