On Friday, a well-known Nigerian transgender individual received a six-month sentence following a local court's decision to convict them for engaging in the act of throwing money into the air, commonly referred to as "spraying." Although this practice is widespread, particularly at social gatherings, it is deemed illegal within Nigeria.
This rare conviction has sparked criticism from many within the West African nation, which holds deeply conservative views and often targets members of the LGBTQ+ community under legislation prohibiting same-sex relations.
Identified as Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju but more widely recognized as Bobrisky, the individual was accused of "tampering" with Nigerian naira banknotes by dispersing them at a social event. Upon their initial arraignment by Nigeria’s anti-graft agency in the economic hub of Lagos, Bobrisky pleaded guilty to the charges. The sentence imposed, without the option of a fine, represents the maximum penalty permitted by law for this offense. Bobrisky retains the right to appeal this ruling.
Human rights lawyer Festus Ogun highlighted the issue of selective law enforcement in Nigeria, questioning why Bobrisky was specifically targeted by the anti-graft agency. Bobrisky, in their defense, claimed ignorance of the law during the court proceedings. They emphasized their status as a social media influencer with a substantial following of 5 million individuals and expressed a desire for a second chance to utilize their platform to educate followers about the responsible handling of currency.
With the value of a dollar roughly equating to 1,197 Nigerian naira, the act of throwing naira banknotes into the air is considered currency abuse. This behavior results in the banknotes landing on the ground, where they risk being trampled by passersby—an action viewed as disrespectful within Nigerian culture.
The sentencing of Bobrisky serves as a deterrent against future instances of currency abuse, asserted presiding Judge Abimbola Awogboro. The judge emphasized the need to halt the mutilation and tampering of Nigerian currencies, declaring, "Enough of people mutilating and tampering with our currencies. It has to stop."
This case not only sheds light on the legal complexities surrounding cultural practices within Nigeria but also underscores broader issues of discrimination and selective enforcement of laws against marginalized communities, such as the LGBTQ+ population. As discussions continue, it prompts reflection on the intersection of cultural norms, legal frameworks, and human rights within the Nigerian context.
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