Bobrisky-in-jail experience must have been a special one, going by the report of the investigative panel. Finding shows he enjoyed special privileges, Medialord.ng has learnt.
The investigative panel that examined allegations about Bobrisky-in-jail says the cross-dresser enjoyed special privileges.
The panel looked into claims that convicted cross-dresser Idris Okuneye received special treatment during his six-month prison sentence. In the just submitted report, the panel dismissed claims that Bobrisky was kept outside the custodial center.
However, they confirmed he enjoyed certain privileges while incarcerated. The committee revealed that Bobrisky had access to a specially furnished single cell equipped with a humidifier. He received frequent visits from family and friends in the office of the custodial center’s in-charge. Bobrisky also had a floor rug, the ability to self-feed, and a designated inmate to run errands for him. He had access to a fridge, television, and possibly his phone.
The panel found issues with the documentation of Bobrisky’s transfer between custodial centers. They highlighted violations of the Nigerian Correctional Service’s regulations. The report also confirmed that Abdulrasheed Maina’s son transferred money into the personal account of Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Kelvin Iloafonsi Ikechukwu. This practice was deemed unethical.
Panel findings on Bobrisky-in-jail
The panel, chaired by Uju Agomoh of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), reported that Bobrisky served his sentence from April 12, 2024, to August 5, 2024. He was transferred from Ikoyi Custodial Centre to Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre, then to Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre. The panel found no evidence that Bobrisky slept outside the custodial centers during his sentence.
However, the transfers violated sections of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act. Proper documentation was not provided at the time of his transfers. The documents were backdated and filed later, breaching protocol.
Special privileges for Bobrisky-in-jail
Bobrisky was granted numerous privileges while in custody. These included a specially furnished single cell and various comforts. The panel recommended further investigation into whether these privileges were financially motivated and rooted in corruption by correctional officers. They also called for clear guidelines to prevent discriminatory practices based on socio-economic status in the future.
The panel noted that the transfer of money from Abdulrasheed Maina’s son to DCC Kelvin Ikechukwu’s personal account tarnished the image of the Nigerian Correctional Service. Even if Maina approved the transaction, it still violated institutional regulations.
Systemic issues and recommendations
The report identified widespread issues of corruption, indiscipline, and unethical behaviour within the Nigerian Correctional Service. It recommended proper training for officers, especially those leading custodial centers. The report also highlighted the need to improve funding, welfare, and working conditions to curb corruption.
Interior Minister Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo responded to the findings. He assured that the report would not be ignored. He promised that all indicted officials would face appropriate disciplinary measures. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to reforming the correctional service.
“This report marks the beginning of a broader reform process,” he stated. He reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring the report would be made public and followed by concrete actions.
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