Authorities in Nigeria have arrested and charged a popular female transgender celebrity after she allegedly abused the West African nation’s banknotes. According to BBC, authorities said Idris Okuneye, who is popularly known as Bobrisky, committed the said offense at a film premiere in the city of Lagos last month.
Authorities said Bobrisky “sprayed” the naira notes. “Spraying” – which is a common practice in Nigeria – involves people throwing money in the air to show gratitude or honor someone. People are usually seen doing that at weddings, parties, and other events in the West African nation.
But the notes landing on the ground after being thrown in the air is technically deemed an offense as people end up walking on them, BBC reported. And though individuals can be sentenced to up to six months in jail if convicted of “spraying,” authorities hardly prosecute such cases.
Reports state that authorities probably arrested and charged Bobrisky after videos of the film premiere were circulated on social media. Dele Oyewale, who is a spokesman for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), informed the news outlet that charges would be brought against the accused celebrity pending the outcome of an investigation.
Local news outlet Vanguard also reported that Bobrisky has since been granted bail, but she has failed to meet the conditions.
“Bobrisky is with us. He was arrested last night in Lagos, and he is at our Lagos command. We arrested him for alleged abuse of naira notes, spraying of naira notes, and currency mutilation, among others,” Oyewale earlier stated.
“We are very serious about restoring the dignity of the naira. Though our investigation is still ongoing, but he will definitely be charged to court soon.”
Brobrisky is a very popular Nigerian celebrity with over five million Instagram followers. She describes herself as an entertainer, social media star, and brand influencer on her Instagram page.
