In an unprecedented move, the House of Representatives has summoned Abdulrasheed Bawa, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), along with popular social media influencer known as VeryDarkMan and controversial Nigerian celebrity, Bobrisky, in connection with serious bribery allegations that have rocked the nation.
The invitation comes as part of the House’s ongoing probe into a string of high-profile corruption cases, which has drawn public attention and raised concerns about the transparency of Nigeria’s financial crime-fighting body. The EFCC has been facing increased scrutiny in recent months due to allegations that some of its officials may have been involved in corrupt practices, compromising the agency’s integrity.
At the center of the scandal are accusations that certain individuals, including celebrities and influencers, have been implicated in bribing EFCC officials to have their names cleared of any financial impropriety. The House Committee on Financial Crimes, led by Rep. Yusuf Gagdi, is investigating claims that high-ranking EFCC officials accepted bribes to manipulate investigations in favor of wealthy individuals and public figures under investigation for financial misconduct.
One of the more shocking elements of the case is the involvement of VeryDarkMan, a rising social media personality known for his activism and outspokenness on various societal issues, including corruption. Sources claim that he was allegedly involved in discussions about payments to secure favorable treatment for friends and associates under EFCC investigation.
Bobrisky, a popular crossdresser and controversial figure in Nigeria’s social media scene, is also said to be linked to the bribery scheme. While details surrounding Bobrisky’s specific role remain unclear, it is alleged that the celebrity might have been involved in attempts to cover up financial discrepancies through corrupt practices. Bobrisky has often been in the public eye for his flamboyant lifestyle, and his entanglement in these allegations has only added fuel to the fire of public debate.
The House of Representatives is eager to get to the bottom of the matter, as the integrity of the EFCC is crucial in the nation’s fight against corruption. Several lawmakers have expressed concern that if such accusations are proven true, it would undermine the work that the commission has done in recent years to combat graft.
During a session earlier this week, Rep. Gagdi stated, The EFCC plays a pivotal role in our nation’s anti-corruption efforts. These allegations of bribery must be thoroughly investigated to ensure that the public’s trust in the commission is not further eroded.
The EFCC chairman, Bawa, is expected to testify before the House and provide clarity on the steps the commission has taken to investigate the claims internally. Bawa, who has been vocal about his commitment to reform within the EFCC, faces a crucial moment in his leadership as the outcome of this probe could determine the commission’s future.
In response to the summons, Bawa has called for calm, assuring Nigerians that he will cooperate fully with the House of Representatives’ investigation. We at the EFCC remain steadfast in our mission to fight financial crimes in Nigeria. We will not be distracted by baseless accusations, and we are confident that the truth will prevail, Bawa said in a statement.
The inclusion of VeryDarkMan and Bobrisky in the investigation has generated widespread discussion on social media, with reactions ranging from disbelief to anger. VeryDarkMan, who has amassed a considerable following due to his stance against corruption and social injustices, released a statement denying any involvement in bribery. These allegations are completely false. I have always stood for integrity and transparency in all I do, and I will continue to fight against corruption in Nigeria, he said in a video posted on Instagram.
Bobrisky, on the other hand, has remained relatively quiet about the issue, opting to focus on promoting his beauty products and lifestyle brand on social media. In a brief Instagram story, the celebrity hinted at being unfairly targeted due to his controversial public image, but he has not directly addressed the bribery accusations.
The unfolding bribery scandal has ignited public outrage, with many Nigerians calling for swift justice and transparency in the proceedings. Activists and anti-corruption groups have joined the chorus of voices demanding that the House of Representatives hold a thorough investigation and ensure that all those involved, regardless of their status or influence, are held accountable.
Chido Onumah, a prominent anti-corruption advocate, urged the House to maintain impartiality in the investigation, stating, Corruption is one of the biggest challenges Nigeria faces today, and it’s disheartening to see public figures, including influencers and celebrities, being implicated. This probe must send a clear message that no one is above the law.
As the investigation unfolds, Nigerians await further developments, eager to see if the country’s lawmakers and institutions will live up to their promise of upholding the rule of law.
The House Committee is expected to begin questioning the invited parties next week. Abdulrasheed Bawa is slated to provide testimony on the EFCC’s internal procedures regarding investigations and how the agency deals with allegations of misconduct among its officers. Both VeryDarkMan and Bobrisky are expected to present their sides of the story as well, either in person or through their legal representatives.
For now, the nation watches closely as this high-stakes drama involving Nigeria’s anti-corruption watchdog, public figures, and social media personalities continues to unfold.
This developing story has the potential to reshape public perceptions of the EFCC and influence the broader fight against corruption in Nigeria. Whether this case will lead to the necessary reforms or further damage trust in Nigeria’s institutions remains to be seen.
Ennywealth
