Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has refused to comment further on the allegations made by Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky. Bobrisky had claimed that officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Nigerian Correctional Services demanded N15 million from him to serve his prison term in a VIP section of the Kirikiri Medium Custodial Centre in Lagos.

When invited to brief the Investigating Committee, VeryDarkMan expressed his dissatisfaction with Bobrisky’s absence, saying:

“I don’t know why I will be here and the person who made these allegations is not here. Bobrisky said in the voice note that there is a godfather. Maybe the godfather told him not to come. He has disrespected this committee by not coming here.”

He further stated, “You are already threatening me with arrest. If you detain me, I will stay in the cell. If Bobrisky is not here, I will not say anything. If I say anything, let me die.”

The committee members tried to persuade VeryDarkMan to speak on the allegations, assuring him that Bobrisky would also face the panel. This development comes amid an ongoing investigation into the bribery allegations, which has led to the suspension of four senior officers from the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Video Credit: The Cable

Blogger Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, appeared before a House of Representatives panel on Monday to address bribery allegations involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

The Committees on Financial Crimes and Reformatory Institutions commenced investigations into claims made by the blogger in a viral video. VeryDarkMan alleged that Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, paid ₦15 million to have money laundering charges dropped by the EFCC after his naira-spraying incident in April, which led to a six-month imprisonment sentence. The blogger also claimed Bobrisky paid additional amounts to secure a preferential spot in prison.

Bobrisky has denied these allegations, and both the EFCC and NCoS have initiated investigations into the claims.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to conduct an independent investigation into the matter.

President Bola Tinubu has sworn in Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the council chambers of the Aso Rock villa on Monday following her confirmation by the senate last week.

Kekere-Ekun, Nigeria’s 23rd CJN and the second female to hold the position, had been serving in an acting capacity since the retirement of Olukayode Ariwoola in August.

During her senate confirmation hearing, Kekere-Ekun discussed her plans for judicial reforms, including the digitization of the courts to improve case tracking and ensure judges handle cases expeditiously.

She also emphasized the use of virtual hearings, particularly in criminal matters, to reduce delays and help with prison decongestion.

More to come…