JUST-IN: Bobrisky served jail term in prison, only enjoyed privileges, says panel

JUST-IN: Bobrisky served jail term in prison, only enjoyed privileges, says panel

The investigative panel set up to examine allegations that convicted cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, received special treatment during his six-month prison sentence, has submitted its report.

The panel dismissed claims that Bobrisky was kept outside the custodial center but confirmed that he enjoyed certain privileges while incarcerated.

The committee revealed that Bobrisky had access to a specially furnished single cell equipped with a humidifier, frequent visits from family and friends, which took place in the office of the custodial center’s in-charge, a floor rug, the ability to self-feed, a designated inmate to run errands for him, and access to a fridge and television. He may also have had access to his phone.

The panel found issues with the documentation of Bobrisky’s transfer between custodial centers, highlighting violations of the Nigerian Correctional Service’s regulations. Additionally, the report confirmed that Abdulrasheed Maina’s son transferred money into the personal account of the Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), Kelvin Iloafonsi Ikechukwu, for Maina’s welfare, a practice deemed unethical.

Panel Findings

The panel, chaired by Uju Agomoh, Executive Director of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), reported that Bobrisky did serve his sentence in a correctional center from April 12, 2024, to August 5, 2024. He was transferred from Ikoyi Custodial Centre to Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre and later to Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre. The panel found no evidence that Bobrisky slept outside the custodial centers during his sentence.

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However, the transfer of Bobrisky between the facilities violated sections of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, as proper documentation was not provided at the time of his transfers. These documents were backdated and filed much later, breaching protocol.

Special Privileges

Bobrisky was granted numerous privileges while in custody, including a specially furnished single cell, access to various comforts, and preferential treatment. The panel recommended further investigation to determine if these privileges were financially motivated and rooted in corruption by correctional officers. It also called for clear guidelines to avoid discriminatory practices based on socio-economic status in the future.