The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has defended its decision to drop money laundering charges against Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky. Bilikisu Bala, the prosecutor, explained that the charges were dropped due to non-compliance with the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) regulations.
Bala stated, “We initially raised six count charges bordering on naira abuse and money laundering against Okuneye based on his confessional statement.” However, after writing to SCUML, the unit responded that Bob Express, Okuneye’s firm, was not a Designated Non-Financial Institution, Business or Profession.
“This informed our decision to drop the money laundering charges,” Bala clarified. “We relied on the four counts of Naira mutilation to which Okuneye had pleaded guilty.” Okuneye had alleged offering N15m bribe to EFCC officials to drop the charges.
Bala dismissed claims of financial inducement, saying, “There is simply no basis for that.” She emphasized, “The Administration of Criminal Justice Act allows amendment of charges. It is a professional practice.”
“It is laughable for anyone to attribute our decision to monetary issues,” Bala added. “Why did we write to SCUML if we didn’t want to include the charges? We wrote to be lawfully guided.”
The EFCC’s decision has sparked controversy, with many questioning the commission’s motives. Bala’s explanation suggests the decision was based on a technicality and adherence to the law.
The Joint Committee of the House of Representatives is investigating allegations of corruption against EFCC officers and the Nigeria Correctional Service. The outcome of the investigation and the EFCC’s handling of the case remain to be seen.
