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Bobrisky Received Special Privileges During Detention, Investigation Reveals

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 22nd, 2024.

Bobrisky Received Special Privileges During Detention, Investigation Reveals

An investigative panel set up by the Federal Government has disclosed that cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, enjoyed various privileges while incarcerated, including access to furnished single cells, a designated inmate to run errands, and amenities like a fridge and television.

Formed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, around three weeks ago, the panel looked into claims that Bobrisky had served his six-month sentence outside prison.

Previously, Bobrisky garnered attention after social critic Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, shared a voice note in which Bobrisky allegedly stated he bribed Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officials with fifteen million naira to dismiss money laundering charges against him.

In its report to the minister, the panel, led by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry, found no evidence to support the claim that Bobrisky spent his jail term outside of prison. However, it highlighted issues with the documentation regarding his transfers between different custodial centers, noting that proper records were only provided later, and these were backdated.

The report indicated that these actions violated sections of the Nigerian Correctional Service Standing Order. It pointed out that Bobrisky’s transfer from a medium-security facility to a maximum-security one, despite being a first offender, was improper and against established regulations.

Furthermore, the panel noted that Bobrisky enjoyed numerous benefits during his time in custody, including a specially furnished cell, frequent family visits conducted in the office of the custodial center’s management, and even access to personal comforts like rugs, self-catering, and possibly a phone.

The panel raised concerns about whether these privileges were a result of corrupt practices by correctional staff and emphasized the need for clear guidelines to prevent discriminatory treatment of inmates based on socio-economic status or other factors.