In a recent development, controversial crossdresser Idris ‘Bobrisky’ Okuneye has vehemently denied defaming human rights lawyer Femi Falana and his son, rapper Falz, while rejecting their demand for retraction and apology.
The allegations stem from a leaked audio recording last month, purportedly featuring Bobrisky’s voice, which made claims about Mr. Falana and discussed Bobrisky’s recent jail time.
However, Bobrisky has categorically denied that the voice in the recording is his.
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Bobrisky stated, “I, Okuneye Idris, aka Bobrisky didn’t give Falz or his dad any money for pardon. As a matter of fact, no penny was given to them. Have said this before and I will say it again.”
This statement comes in response to a cease-and-desist letter issued by Mr. Falana and Falz on Monday, giving Bobrisky a 12-hour ultimatum to apologize and retract the alleged defamatory claims. The letter, signed by Olorunfemi Akinyemi and Taiwo E. Olawanle of Falana and Falana’s Chambers, warned of legal action if Bobrisky failed to comply.
The Explainer reported that the controversy began in September when social media influencer Martins ‘VDM’ Otse leaked an audio recording allegedly featuring Bobrisky. In the recording, a voice claimed that Mr. Falana and Falz had approached Bobrisky to secure a presidential pardon for N10 million.
Addressing the cease-and-desist letter, Bobrisky posted on Instagram, saying, “I Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju aka Bobrisky did not publish any defamatory statement or statements concerning the learned SAN (Falana) and his son, Falz.”
He further added, “I stand by my express denial and put the matter to strict proof and advise that whoever has been defamed should hold the publisher of the defamatory content and my fundamental rights to privacy of my communications should be respected and protected.”
Bobrisky insisted that the person who published the audio online should take full responsibility for its content. He also mentioned that his lawyer would provide any further information the public might require about the ongoing issue.
This controversy follows Bobrisky’s recent six-month imprisonment at Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos for Naira abuse.
He was released on August 5, 2024, after serving his sentence.
