Bobrisky, the controversial Nigerian cross-dresser and socialite, has been sentenced to six months in prison by the Federal High Court in Lagos.
His charges
His sentencing comes after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned him on a six-count charge.
The court said Bobrisky tampered with the Naira currency issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by spraying the total sum of N400,000 at imax Circle Mall, Jakande, Lekki on the 24th day of March,2024.
It also held that between July and August 2023 Bobrisky tampered with the sum N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) whilst dancing during a social event at Aja Junction, lkorodu.
Similarly, Bobrisky, sometime in December 2023, tampered with the sum N20,000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) by spraying the Naira notes at White Steve Event Hall, Ikeja, whilst dancing during a social event.
The court also held that the dress-crosser tampered with the sum N20, 000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) by spraying whilst dancing during a social event, sometimes in 2022 at Event Hall, Oniru, Victory Island.
According to the court, Bobrisky’s conduct was an offence contrary to and punishable under section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act, 2007.
But, two of the charges were later dropped, while he pleaded guilty to naira abuse, but pleaded for mercy as a first-time offender.
Bobrisky’s sentencing
Justice Abimbola Awogboro handed down a six-month sentence to Okuneye, who has been in detention since his arrest last week.
Deterrent to other Naira abusers
While handing down the sentence, Justice Awogboro said the judgment will serve as a deterrent to others that are fond of abusing and mutilating the Nigerian currency.
The judge ruled that the jail-term will commence from March 24, 2024, the day of his arrest.
Background
On April 5, the court convicted Bobrisky after he pleaded guilty to the four counts of abusing the naira.
The judge consequently adjourned to last Thursday, for sentencing, but the day was declared as public holiday by the Federal government for the Eid-l-fitr celebration.
