The recent arrest and sentence of Idris Okuneye, known widely as Bobrisky, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for naira abuse has sparked a significant debate across Nigeria.
His arrest follows an incident where he was filmed spraying new naira notes at the premiere of Eniola Ajao’s movie “Àjàkájù” on March 24, 2024. This act led to a six-count charge against him, predominantly focusing on the misuse of the national currency and two dropped charges of alleged money laundering.
Bobrisky’s prompt guilty plea to the naira abuse charges and his subsequent six-month imprisonment sentence without the option of a fine has raised eyebrows. His plea for leniency, based on his claim of ignorance of the law, although not excusable, does highlight a broader issue: many Nigerians are similarly uninformed about these regulations.
The peculiarity of his case, however, lies not in the application of the law but in the selective enforcement and the severity of the punishment meted out.
The question arises: Why was Bobrisky singled out? This question becomes even more poignant considering the cultural backdrop of Nigeria where money spraying is a common practice at social events, often overlooked by law enforcement.
The stark enforcement in Bobrisky’s case suggests an undertone of moral judgment rather than a mere legal proceeding. His recognition as the best female dresser at the same event adds another layer of societal and moral complexity to his arrest.
Critics argue that the award, given in a conservative society, may have amplified the scrutiny on him, thereby influencing the harshness of the legal outcome.
The intensity of the sentence appears disproportionate. It reflects a possible intent to make an example out of him, perhaps as a warning to others, but at the cost of fairness. The judicial system’s role should pivot more towards equitable justice rather than moral policing.
The excessive use of judicial power in this instance resembles using a sledgehammer to kill a rat, an overkill that might be seen more as a moral statement than an act of justice.h
This incident has wider implications for legal precedents and the enforcement of naira abuse laws. If the law is to be enforced, it should be done uniformly and not selectively.
The EFCC’s approach, in this case, may set a precedent that could be cited in future legal battles, potentially leading to more stringent actions for similar offenses- two portions of rice ahead for future defaulters and more ex convicts titles to be bagged.
A more balanced approach, possibly a monetary fine and a warning, would have been sufficient and more in tune with the sensibilities of many Nigerians.
As it stands, this judgment does not just penalize an individual but sends a ripple effect throughout the cultural fabric of Nigerian society. It challenges the consistency of law enforcement and poses questions about the balance of law, morality, and cultural practices.
Moving forward, it is crucial for the judicial system to clarify its stance and ensure that its judgments are free from moral prejudices and are uniformly applied to foster trust and respect for the legal system.