Nigeria EFCC Explains Why Bobrisky's Money Laundering Charges Were Dropped

The EFCC dropped money laundering charges against Bobrisky due to legal compliance with SCUML's findings that his firm, Bob Express, was not classified as a Designated Non-Financial Institution. The EFCC clarified the decision before a House committee, denying bribery allegations and emphasizing that the charges were dropped lawfully.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified its decision to drop money laundering charges against Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky. Speaking before a Joint Committee of the House of Representatives, EFCC prosecutor Bilikisu Bala explained that the charges were dropped in line with legal procedures and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

According to Bala, Bobrisky's firm, Bob Express, was initially suspected of violating money laundering laws. However, after consulting with the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML), the EFCC discovered that Bob Express was not a Designated Non-Financial Institution, Business, or Profession (DSNFIBP). This meant that the firm did not fall under the legal framework for money laundering prosecution. As a result, the EFCC dropped the money laundering charges but pursued charges related to Naira mutilation, to which Bobrisky pleaded guilty.

Bobrisky had previously alleged in a viral video that he paid a bribe to EFCC officials to drop the charges, but the EFCC has strongly denied these claims. Bala stressed that the decision to drop the charges was purely legal and not influenced by any financial inducement.

The EFCC has committed to transparency in its investigation and proceedings, urging the committee to review the case to ensure justice is upheld thoroughly. Bobrisky’s absence from the hearing was explained by his lawyer, citing illness, although lawmakers questioned the lack of supporting documentation.

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