The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed that an investigation is underway regarding allegations surrounding the accommodation of convicted crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, during his prison sentence. The outcome of this investigation is still pending.
Deputy Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, revealed this during an interview on Sunday in Abuja. Mr. Umar emphasized the service’s dedication to rehabilitation and safety through its thorough inmate admission procedures.
Bobrisky was convicted in April for mutilating the naira and sentenced to six months imprisonment. Recently, a social media influencer and human rights activist, Vincent Otse (also known as Very Dark Man), shared an audio recording allegedly capturing Bobrisky claiming he spent his jail term in a private apartment. The recording also alleged that Bobrisky paid N15 million to Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officials to drop money laundering charges against him.
In response to these allegations, on September 30, the Federal Government inaugurated an independent investigative panel to probe corruption and violations of standard operating procedures within the NCoS. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized that the committee would also investigate claims that correctional officers provided alternative accommodation for Bobrisky.
Addressing the issue, Mr. Umar explained the correctional service’s comprehensive admission process, stating that each inmate undergoes an assessment to determine security risks, individual needs, and other factors before being assigned a cell.
“When an offender is brought to our facility, there is a structured admission process involving an admission board. This board, which includes the officer in charge, second-in-command, medical officer, record officer, and other relevant personnel, evaluates the inmate’s information, including security risks, potential self-harm, and the safety of other inmates,” Mr. Umar said.
He added that the process includes assessing the inmate’s criminogenic needs—behaviors that may contribute to criminal activities—and other issues that could affect their rehabilitation or adjustment to prison life. Based on these evaluations, the inmate is allocated a suitable cell.
Regarding Bobrisky’s admission, Mr. Umar explained that during his court appearance and subsequent admission, Bobrisky identified as male but also displayed other physical features. This led to careful consideration of his safety and the security of the facility when assigning his cell.
“Because of these classifications and security concerns, we ensured he was placed in an appropriate cell to protect both him and the facility,” Mr. Umar said.
He concluded by noting that the committee investigating the allegations about Bobrisky’s stay outside the custodial facility is still at work, and the Correctional Service will await the findings before making further comments. “Until the investigation is complete, we will not speculate further on the matter,” he added.
