An investigative panel established by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, recently released its findings regarding the treatment of renowned Nigerian crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, during his incarceration in the Medium and Maximum Security Custodial Centres. Uju Agomoh, a member of the panel and the founder of the Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action, presented the report, revealing that Bobrisky was afforded numerous privileges that starkly contrasts with the standard treatment of inmates. The investigation was prompted by accusations of corruption and irregularities within the Nigerian Correctional Service, urging the panel to uncover any misconduct related to Bobrisky’s imprisonment.
The inquiry was initiated in late September 2023 amid claims promoted by a social critic, Martins Otse, who publicized a voice note credited to Bobrisky. In this audio, Bobrisky boasted of a “godfather” who facilitated his favorable conditions of incarceration, suggesting that he was able to serve his six-month sentence in a private apartment rather than behind bars. These allegations raised serious concerns about the integrity of the Nigerian Correctional Service and prompted Minister Tunji-Ojo to launch a formal investigation focusing on corruption and violations associated with Bobrisky’s treatment during his custodial period.
The report highlighted the specific privileges Bobrisky allegedly received while detained. Among these benefits were furnished individual cells, access to amenities like humidifiers, and the freedom to host numerous visitors, including friends and family. Additional perks reportedly included self-feeding arrangements, designated inmates assigned to run errands for him, and amenities such as a refrigerator and television. The significance of these findings underlined a potential breach of protocol as it suggested that Bobrisky’s exceptional treatment might stem from corrupt practices among correctional officers—an area the panel deemed worthy of further scrutiny to understand the motivations behind these preferential treatments.
Moreover, Agomoh expressed concerns about Bobrisky’s classification as a first-time offender, indicating that his transfer to a maximum security facility was in violation of specific sections of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019. This misplacement exacerbated the perceived disparity in treatment between Bobrisky and other inmates, highlighting the need for stringent regulations governing the treatment of individuals with unique circumstances, such as Bobrisky’s. The inquiry revealed broader implications regarding the overall governance within the correctional system and the need to ensure that all inmates are treated equitably under the law.
As the panel’s findings came to light, it called into question the established norms within the Nigerian Correctional Service and emphasized the necessity for reform. The differential treatment highlighted not only the potential for corruption but also raised critical issues regarding the adherence to fundamental principles of justice and humane treatment in the penal system. The investigation aims to instill transparency and accountability, particularly when it comes to the rights and privileges of inmates, ensuring equity is maintained in line with legislative frameworks.
Overall, the investigative panel’s report challenges the norms surrounding inmate privileges in Nigeria and seeks to correct potential abuses within the correctional system. The revelations about Bobrisky’s experience underscore a broader conversation about power dynamics, corruption, and the urgent need for systemic reform to protect the integrity of the Nigerian justice system. The continued scrutiny of these practices will hopefully lead to significant changes that promote fairness and transparency for all individuals within the custodial environment.
