Nigerian crossdresser and social media influencer, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has lost his lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Assembly (NASS).
The lawsuit, which was filed in 2020, sought N200 million in damages against the EFCC for alleged harassment and intimidation. Bobrisky also sought N1 billion in damages against the NASS for alleged infringement on his fundamental human rights.
However, in a recent ruling, the Federal High Court in Lagos dismissed Bobrisky's lawsuit, stating that the EFCC and NASS did not violate his rights.
The Lawsuit: A Recap
In 2020, Bobrisky filed a lawsuit against the EFCC and NASS, alleging that the anti-graft agency had been harassing and intimidating him. He also alleged that the NASS had infringed on his fundamental human rights by proposing a bill to prohibit crossdressing in Nigeria.
Bobrisky sought N200 million in damages against the EFCC and N1 billion in damages against the NASS. He also sought a declaration that the EFCC's actions were unconstitutional and a violation of his rights.
The Ruling: A New Development
In a recent ruling, the Federal High Court in Lagos dismissed Bobrisky's lawsuit, stating that the EFCC and NASS did not violate his rights. The court held that the EFCC's actions were lawful and did not constitute harassment or intimidation.
The court also held that the NASS did not infringe on Bobrisky's fundamental human rights by proposing a bill to prohibit crossdressing in Nigeria. The court stated that the bill was still in the proposal stage and had not been passed into law.
Reactions to the Ruling
The ruling has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians. While some have praised the court for upholding the law, others have criticized the ruling, stating that it is a setback for the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria.
Bobrisky has also reacted to the ruling, stating that he will appeal the decision. In a post on his Instagram page, Bobrisky wrote, "I will not give up. I will appeal this decision and fight for my rights."
Conclusion
The ruling in Bobrisky's lawsuit against the EFCC and NASS is a significant development in the ongoing debate about LGBTQ+ rights in Nigeria. While the ruling may be seen as a setback for the community, it is also a reminder that the fight for equality and justice is ongoing.
As Bobrisky prepares to appeal the decision, it is clear that this is not the end of the road. The LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria will continue to fight for their rights, and it is only a matter of time before they achieve victory.