Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz the Bahd Guy, has been at the centre of controversy following allegations that his name was mentioned by popular cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, aka Bobrisky, in a bribery scandal involving ₦15 million paid to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to clear money laundering charges.
The allegations stemmed from a viral recording of social media activist Otse Martins, also known as VeryDarkMan. In it, Bobrisky allegedly discussed his payment to EFCC officials and how he reached out to Falz and his father, renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), to secure a state pardon.
In April 2024, Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos sentenced Bobrisky to six months in prison for Naira abuse after dismissing the money laundering charges against him. This sentencing followed shortly after Bobrisky celebrated winning the ‘Best Dressed Female’ award at a movie premiere. During his time in custody, Bobrisky sought help from the Falanas to improve his situation.
In the leaked call, Bobrisky allegedly said he contacted Falz and asked ₦3 million to secure a VIP section at the Correctional Centre. The audio also detailed how Bobrisky allegedly facilitated a ₦15 million payment to the EFCC. Bobrisky denied the recording, claiming the allegations were false and baseless.
In response to the controversy, Falz confirmed he had been in contact with Bobrisky but denied involvement in illegal dealings. He clarified that Bobrisky did reach out to him for money but that the request was solely related to securing better conditions at the prison. He issued a 24-hour ultimatum to VeryDarkMan, demanding a retraction of the defamatory claims.
Falz’s legal representatives, Falana & Falana Chambers, also issued a formal letter to VeryDarkMan, insisting on a public apology across all platforms where the accusations were made. The law firm emphasized that the claims damaged Falz’s reputation and would pursue legal action if the demands were unmet.
However, VeryDarkMan’s solicitor, Deji Adeyanju, responded by noting that Falz had acknowledged some aspects of the recording, adding that the publication of the voice note was not intended to defame but to bring attention to serious allegations that deserved thorough investigation.
In the wake of the controversy, the federal government has reportedly initiated an investigation into the alleged ₦15 million bribe, with some senior officers of the Correctional Centre facing sanctions. As the matter unfolds, many Nigerians are closely watching the developments, waiting for more clarity on the case.
