“I am a man”-Bobrisky Admits Male Identity in Court

Controversial Crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, admitted that he was a man in Federal High Court in Lagos State on Friday.

Report Afrique reported earlier that during the proceedings, Justice Abimbola Awogboro handed down a six-month prison sentence to Bobrisky without the option of a fine for his involvement in the abuse of the Nigerian currency.

The sentencing followed Bobrisky’s admission of his male identity when questioned by the judge. Responding to the query, “Are you a man or a woman?” Bobrisky unequivocally stated, “I am a man.”

Justice Awogboro emphasized that the verdict aimed to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in similar acts of currency abuse and mutilation. The judge specified that Bobrisky’s jail term commenced on March 24, 2024, the day of his arrest.

Bobrisky’s legal troubles stem from a charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for abusing the naira. On April 5, the court convicted Bobrisky after he pleaded guilty to the offense.

Initially scheduled for sentencing on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, the proceedings were postponed due to the declaration of a public holiday by the Federal Government for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

In a bid to mitigate his punishment, Bobrisky pleaded with the court for leniency, citing his lack of awareness regarding the law against naira abuse. During his allocutus, he expressed remorse for his actions and pledged to utilize his social media platform to educate his followers on responsible behavior.

However, the judge reiterated that ignorance of the law could not serve as an excuse. Despite Bobrisky’s plea and promise of future compliance, Justice Awogboro upheld the sentence, emphasizing the importance of upholding legal standards.

Bobrisky’s case has sparked widespread discussion and debate, reflecting broader concerns about the influence of social media personalities and the consequences of their actions. With over five million followers on various platforms, Bobrisky’s reach underscores the potential impact of his messaging.

As Bobrisky begins his prison term, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and responsibility, especially among public figures with significant online followings. The outcome also underscores the importance of adhering to legal regulations and societal norms, regardless of one’s status or popularity.

While Bobrisky’s case has garnered attention for its unique circumstances, it underscores broader issues surrounding social media ethics, legal compliance, and the intersection of online influence and real-world consequences. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the implications of such cases extend beyond individual actors to encompass broader questions about accountability, integrity, and the role of social media in shaping public discourse.