The investigative panel set up by the Federal Government to look into the controversies surrounding the jail sentence of Nigerian cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has released its findings.
This inquiry was initiated on September 30 by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who appointed a panel led by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Magdalena Ajani. The focus of the investigation is alleged corruption and other violations within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The probe was prompted after controversial activist VeryDarkMan released a video in which Bobrisky claimed to have bribed officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to dismiss money laundering charges against him. In the video, Bobrisky also mentioned that a “godfather” and Haliru Nababa, the controller general of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), facilitated his six-month sentence in a private apartment instead of a traditional prison setting.
During a presentation of the phase one report at the Ministry of Interior, Uju Agomoh, the executive director and founder of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), stated that the panel did not find any evidence that Bobrisky spent time outside the prison during his sentence, which lasted from April 12 to August 5, 2024.
Agomoh further elaborated that while Bobrisky did not sleep outside the custodial center, he enjoyed several privileges during his time in custody. These included access to furnished single cells, a humidifier, frequent visits from family and friends, self-feeding, designated inmates for errands, and possibly access to a refrigerator, television, and phone.
The report highlighted the need for further investigation to determine whether these privileges were granted due to corrupt practices by correctional officers. It pointed out that the unique circumstances surrounding Bobrisky’s case, including his appearance and behavior, might have influenced the privileges granted to him.
To prevent future incidents, the panel has recommended establishing clear guidelines to ensure fair treatment for all inmates. Additionally, it stressed the importance of addressing discriminatory practices based on inmates’ socio-economic status and other factors.
