Controversial Nigerian crossdresser, Okuneye Idris, better known as Bobrisky, has appealed to Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy to pardon fellow entertainer, Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Okoye.
In October 2024, Speed Darlington was arrested on charges of defamation and cyberstalking related to Burna Boy. He was initially detained in Lagos before being transferred to Abuja, where the IGP’s Intelligence Response Team held him. After being released, he was arrested again in November during a performance in Owerri, Imo State.
Bobrisky, in a heartfelt appeal, urged Burna Boy to facilitate Speed Darlington’s release. In a series of Instagram stories shared on Sunday, Bobrisky expressed concerns about Speed Darlington’s well-being in prison and asked Burna Boy for forgiveness, suggesting that a 45-day sentence should suffice as punishment.
Despite admitting that none of the people he’s advocating for supported him during his own struggles, Bobrisky emphasized his compassionate nature. He also encouraged fans to give honest feedback to their favorite celebrities, especially when they cross boundaries.
Bobrisky wrote, “I just want to mind my business this year and stay away from anything involving Nigerian celebrities, but my soft heart won’t stop me from thinking about many things. Please, Burna Boy, forgive Speed. Prison is not a nice place. I don’t think he has the money for the VIP section because it’s expensive.”
He continued, “None of these people I’m using my platform to stand for did the same for me when it was my time. But you know what? Our hearts are different. I can’t stand seeing human beings hurt. I pray, Burna, please release him. Forty-five days in prison is enough punishment.”
Bobrisky concluded by advising fans, “Fans, learn how to tell your favourites the truth when they are crossing the line. You all were applauding Speed when he was saying unpleasant things. Now, none of you is in prison with him.”