Famous Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, has clarified his involvement with popular Nigerian internet personality Bobrisky during the latter’s time in prison. Falz’s statement comes amidst a swirl of controversy and accusations, particularly following the leak of an alleged audio recording involving Bobrisky.
Bobrisky had spent three months in jail after pleading guilty to naira mutilation, a crime that brought him to the attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The cross-dresser, known for his extravagant lifestyle and outspoken personality, was arrested and imprisoned, with the EFCC bringing money laundering charges against him. However, after serving his sentence, Bobrisky was released on August 5, 2024.
The controversy took a dramatic turn on September 24, 2024, when Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, leaked what he claimed to be Bobrisky’s voice recording. In the now-viral audio clip, Bobrisky allegedly stated that a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and his son, Falz, had been instrumental in helping him get the EFCC to drop the money laundering charges against him during his time in prison. This revelation sparked outrage and confusion on social media, leading to heated discussions and public interest in what transpired behind the scenes.
However, in response to these claims, Falz, through his legal team, Falana & Falana’s Chambers, issued a strongly worded statement denying any involvement in securing Bobrisky’s release or facilitating the dropping of charges. Falz made it clear that he had no prior contact with Bobrisky while the internet sensation was in prison, refuting the claims made in the leaked audio.
In the statement released by Falz’s lawyers, it was emphasized that Bobrisky only reached out to Falz for financial help, specifically requesting 3 million Naira. According to Falz, Bobrisky wanted the money to pay certain officials in exchange for being allowed to stay in the VIP section of the correctional facility during his imprisonment. Falz categorically denied being involved in any legal proceedings or negotiations that could have led to the dropping of charges by the EFCC, asserting that his only contact with Bobrisky was related to the financial request.
Falz also expressed disappointment with VeryDarkMan, accusing the activist of recklessly publishing the leaked voice recording without first reaching out to him for clarification. In a viral letter circulating on social media, Falz’s legal team highlighted the potential damage caused by the careless and unverified allegations made against the rapper. They stressed that VeryDarkMan’s actions had caused significant harm to Falz’s reputation, as many people took the leaked audio at face value without considering the possibility of inaccuracies or false claims.
The leaked audio, has added a new layer of intrigue to Bobrisky’s already dramatic public persona. In the recording, Bobrisky’s claims suggested that powerful individuals were involved in helping him navigate his legal troubles, a narrative that has captured the attention of the public and further fueled the controversy surrounding him.
Falz, on the other hand, is a well-respected artist and activist in Nigeria, known for using his platform to address social issues, particularly around governance, human rights, and the justice system. His work in the #EndSARS movement, which called for the end of police brutality in Nigeria, cemented his reputation as a vocal advocate for the people.
