The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced that the money laundering charges against Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, have been lawfully dismissed. Prosecutor Bilikisu Bala clarified that this decision aligns with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
Bala, who led the prosecution in Okuneye’s case, explained that the charges were dropped following information from the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML). They confirmed that Okuneye’s business, Bob Express, does not qualify as a Designated Non-Financial Institution, Business, or Profession (DNFIBP), which means it could not be held accountable under the Money Laundering Prevention & Prohibition Act, 2022.
During a session with a House of Representatives committee investigating corruption allegations against EFCC officials, Bala stated that six charges had initially been filed against Okuneye for naira abuse and money laundering. However, after reviewing his confession regarding the registration status of Bob Express with SCUML, it was determined that the money laundering charges were unsustainable. Consequently, only the four counts related to naira abuse were maintained, to which Okuneye pleaded guilty.
Bala firmly rejected claims of bribery related to the dismissal of these charges. She emphasized that there was no basis for such allegations and reiterated that the EFCC acted in accordance with legal protocols. She pointed out that the ACJA allows for amendments to charges as part of standard legal practice.
In light of these developments, the EFCC remains committed to upholding its integrity and professionalism while addressing any corruption allegations involving its officials.
