The Federal High Court in Lagos delivered a significant judgment on Friday, and sentenced controversial cross dresser Idris Olarewaju Okuneye, famously known as Bobrisky, to six months imprisonment without the option of a fine for abusing the naira. This verdict comes after Bobrisky pleaded guilty to the charge of abusing the Nigerian currency, as filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Abimbola Awogboro, presiding over the case, emphasized the deterrent effect of the sentence, stating that it serves as a warning to others who might contemplate similar actions of abusing and mutilating the naira. The judge clarified that the jail term would commence from March 24, 2024, the day of Bobrisky’s arrest.
Prior to the sentencing, the judge queried Bobrisky about his gender, to which he promptly affirmed being male. Despite Bobrisky’s pleas for leniency, expressing ignorance of the law regarding currency abuse, the judge upheld the verdict, asserting that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Bobrisky’s request for a second chance to utilize his social media platform to educate his followers on proper currency handling was also dismissed.
The court’s decision to proceed with sentencing on Friday marked the culmination of legal proceedings initiated earlier this month. Despite Bobrisky’s appeals for a lesser punishment, the court upheld its earlier conviction, reinforcing the severity of the offense and the need for adherence to legal standards.
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