A federal government panel has released its findings regarding the six-month jail term of controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, exposing the extraordinary privileges he enjoyed while in custody. The panel also recommended legal action against social media critic VeryDarkMan for spreading unverified claims.
Bobrisky's Special Treatment in Prison
According to reports from PUNCH, the independent investigative panel discovered that Bobrisky was housed in a soundproofed cell at both the Medium Security and Maximum Security Custodial Centres in Kirikiri, Lagos. He was allowed to use mobile phones, feed himself, and receive unlimited visits from family and friends. Additionally, a fellow inmate was assigned to attend to his personal needs. These privileges, the panel stated, far exceed what is permissible under Nigerian correctional law.
Recommendations for Prosecution
The panel recommended that the Department of State Services investigate Bobrisky for allegedly bribing officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). If substantiated, he should face charges under anti-corruption laws. The panel also urged the NCoS to file defamation suits against Bobrisky for his false claims about bypassing the prison system, which tarnished the institution's reputation.
Action Against VeryDarkMan
Regarding social media critic VeryDarkMan, the panel recommended he be charged with libel for disseminating unverified claims that defamed government officials and agencies, as well as incitement and data privacy violations. VeryDarkMan had shared an audio recording purportedly of a conversation between Bobrisky and another individual, making bold allegations involving the EFCC and NCoS officials.
Background of the Case
Bobrisky was sentenced to six months' imprisonment on April 12, 2024, for naira abuse and was released on August 5 after completing the term. After his release, VeryDarkMan's audio recording sparked public outrage, prompting the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to set up an investigative panel on September 30, chaired by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Magdalena Ajani.
Public Reactions
Social media users have reacted to the panel's findings. Temixthomas_ commented: "So what will happen now? They should go and drag him from wherever he is now to serve another one." O_mo_wumi11 said: "Federal government no see anything do to what’s happening in Nigeria ooo nah bob case unna Dey remember." Ifygalaxy remarked: "VDM was right after all! He doesn’t just set camera to talk, he talks with evidence." Addie_stallion added: "He has left your country. U lot should focus on more important things like the kidnappings going on around the country."
James Brown Alleges Bobrisky Not in the UK
In a related development, crossdresser James Brown alleged that Bobrisky is not in the United Kingdom, despite posts suggesting otherwise. Bobrisky had stated he was not ready to return to Nigeria. James Brown claimed on Instagram that he discovered Bobrisky was not living in the UK as claimed.
