A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has dismissed a fundamental rights suit filed by Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In his suit, Bobrisky alleged that the EFCC had breached his rights and sought N200 million in damages. However, the court ruled on November 28, 2024, that Bobrisky’s claims were without merit, citing the lack of credible evidence to support his case.
The suit, filed by Bobrisky, sought various reliefs, including an order of perpetual injunction to prevent the EFCC from harassing, declaring him wanted, arresting, or detaining him. Additionally, he sought damages for the alleged violation of his rights. Bobrisky had argued that the EFCC’s actions, particularly surrounding his arrest, had caused him significant harm.
Justice Alexander Owoeye, in his judgment, emphasized that the applicant (Bobrisky) failed to provide sufficient evidence to justify the reliefs he sought. The court found that there was no merit in the claims of rights violation against the EFCC and its officers, ruling that Bobrisky’s allegations were unsubstantiated.
The judge further stated that after evaluating the evidence presented by Bobrisky, it was clear that he had failed to demonstrate a case for the declaratory and injunctive reliefs. In conclusion, Justice Owoeye dismissed the suit, stating that the claims lacked merit and were liable to be thrown out. The court also refused to award any damages against the EFCC.
This legal battle stemmed from Bobrisky’s arrest on April 4, 2024, by the EFCC over allegations related to Naira abuse. His arrest led to a conviction on April 12, 2024, by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos, where he was sentenced to six months in prison. The case against Bobrisky was closely followed, and the dismissal of his fundamental rights suit marks another development in the ongoing legal challenges he faces.
The EFCC continues to maintain its stance on combating financial crimes and protecting the integrity of the nation’s financial system.
