The controversial crossdresser, Idris Olarewaju Okuneye, famously known as Bobrisky, has been sentenced to six months in prison without the option of a fine for abusing the naira. The judgment was delivered by Justice Abimbola Awogboro at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday.

In her ruling, Justice Awogboro emphasized that the sentence was intended to serve as a deterrent to others who might engage in similar acts of abusing and mutilating the naira. She also noted that the jail term would commence from March 24, 2024, the day of Bobrisky’s arrest.

Before delivering the sentence, the judge asked Bobrisky about his gender, to which he promptly responded that he was male.

Bobrisky was convicted on April 5 after pleading guilty to the charge of abusing the naira, which was filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The sentencing, initially scheduled for April 9, was postponed due to a public holiday declared by the Federal Government for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

During his plea for leniency, Bobrisky expressed remorse for his actions and pleaded with the court, stating that he was not aware of the law regarding the abuse of the naira. He highlighted his status as a social media influencer with over five million followers and offered to use his platform to educate others about the legal implications of spraying money.

However, Justice Awogboro reiterated that ignorance of the law was not an excuse and emphasized the need for compliance. She urged Bobrisky to use his influence responsibly and ordered the enforcement of the six-month prison sentence.

“I know, My Lord. My Lord, I wish that you could give me a second chance to use my platform to inform and educate my followers about spraying money. I would do a video on my page and I would educate people about spraying money. I will not repeat it, My Lord. I regret my actions, My Lord,” Bobrisky pleaded in court.