The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed an ongoing investigation into allegations surrounding convicted cross dresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky’s accommodation. Abubakar Umar, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), stated that the service is committed to rehabilitation and safety through its comprehensive inmate admission process. Bobrisky was convicted for mutilating the naira in April and sentenced to six months in jail. A social media influencer and human rights activist, Mr. Vincent Otse, published an audio recording which captured Bobrisky allegedly saying that he spent his jail term in a private apartment and paid N15 million to Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officials to drop charges of money laundering against him.
On September 30, the Federal Government inaugurated an independent investigative panel to prove allegations of corruption and gross violations of standard operating procedures within the NCoS. The Minister Of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said that the committee must also look at the recent allegations that some correctional service personnel had provided alternative accomodation for Bobrisky.
Umar explained that inmates undergo comprehensive assessments to determine security risks, needs, and responsivity issues when brought to custodial centers. The admission board evaluates each inmate to ensure safe housing and effective rehabilitation. He emphasized the service’s rigorous admission process for inmates and adherence to human rights principles through the approach.
During Bobrisky’s court appearance and subsequent admission to the facility, he was asked to declare his gender and other features. He was given an appropriate cell where he was kept to ensure his safety and protection. The Minister of Interior has set up a committee to investigate the alleged Bobrisky staying outside the NCoS custodial center.
Until the outcome of the investigations, Umar stated that once an inmate or people are convicted or brought to the NCoS, they will undergo checks to determine their security both to the person and the custodial center.
The NCoS is awaiting an investigation outcome and is working to clarify the inmate admission process
