Fatshimetrie has emerged as a key figure in the fight for human rights in Nigeria, with human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, and his son, Folarin, better known as Falz, at its helm. Recently, these personalities have been attacked by the famous cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, who has leveled defamatory accusations against them.
In a letter dated October 14, 2024, the Falanas’ lawyers demanded that Bobrisky immediately withdraw his insulting and defamatory statements and issue a public apology on all platforms that relayed his offensive remarks. Failure to retract the letter within 12 hours of receipt of the letter could result in legal action being taken against Bobrisky, including damages.
Bobrisky allegedly alleged that the Falanas were involved in a N10 million bribe, and attempted to influence a presidential pardon process in his favour. These allegations were seen as attempts to damage the Falanas’ reputation, and implicate them in a fictitious criminal case. The Falanas’ lawyers vigorously denied the allegations, highlighting the defamatory and untruthful nature of Bobrisky’s statements.
This episode highlights the challenges faced by human rights defenders in Nigeria, who sometimes have to contend with unfair and slanderous attacks. The fight for justice and the rule of law requires constant vigilance against attempts to discredit and defame them.
In conclusion, the Falanas vs. Bobrisky case highlights the importance of upholding the integrity of human rights defenders and justice, as well as the need to ensure that the truth prevails despite attempts to distort reality.