Popular Nigerian social media personality Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, was re-arrested Thursday evening at Murtala Mohammed International Airport by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as he prepared to board a flight to London. Authorities reportedly halted the plane before takeoff to detain Bobrisky in front of other passengers.
The arrest comes only days after he was released on bail and follows a series of recent legal issues. Last week, Bobrisky was detained by the Nigeria Immigration Service at the Seme border amid allegations of attempting to flee the country. Reports also suggest Bobrisky paid ₦15 million to EFCC officials in hopes of dropping money laundering charges, which the EFCC continues to investigate.
The controversy deepened with a leaked audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed he served six months outside of Kirikiri prison due to “influential connections.” He has denied the recording’s authenticity, labeling it “fake” and threatening legal action against the source. An investigative panel later reported finding no evidence that Bobrisky served time outside prison.
Following his airport arrest, Bobrisky appealed for support on Instagram, writing, “Nigerians help me, EFCC just arrested me. I’m badly injured.” Fellow passenger Isaac Fayose, who shared a flight with Bobrisky, voiced surprise at the timing of the arrest.
