The investigative panel set up to review allegations that convicted cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, received special treatment during his six-month prison sentence has submitted its findings.
The panel dismissed claims that Bobrisky was housed outside the custodial center but confirmed that he enjoyed various privileges while incarcerated. According to the report, Bobrisky was kept in a specially furnished single cell that included a humidifier, had frequent visits from family and friends in the office of the custodial center’s in-charge, and had access to comforts such as a floor rug, a designated inmate to run errands, a fridge, and a television. There were also indications he may have had access to his phone.
The panel identified issues regarding the documentation of Bobrisky’s transfers between custodial centers, revealing violations of the Nigerian Correctional Service’s regulations. It was also noted that Abdulrasheed Maina’s son transferred money into the personal account of Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Kelvin Iloafonsi Ikechukwu for Maina’s welfare, a practice viewed as unethical.
Panel Findings
Chaired by Uju Agomoh, Executive Director of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), the panel confirmed that Bobrisky served his sentence from April 12, 2024, to August 5, 2024, moving from Ikoyi Custodial Centre to Kirikiri Medium Security and later to Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centres. The investigation found no evidence that Bobrisky spent nights outside the custodial facilities during his sentence.
However, it noted that the transfers violated the Nigerian Correctional Service Act due to improper documentation at the time, which was backdated and filed much later, breaching established protocols.
Special Privileges
The panel highlighted the numerous privileges Bobrisky received while in custody, including enhanced living conditions and preferential treatment. It recommended further investigation to determine if these privileges were motivated by financial incentives or corruption among correctional officers. The panel also called for the establishment of clear guidelines to prevent discriminatory practices based on socio-economic status in the future.