An Independent Investigative Panel set up by the Federal Government has revealed that popular crossdresser, Okuneye Olanrewaju, widely known as Bobrisky, was housed in a specially modified soundproofed cell and enjoyed privileges far beyond what is permitted under Nigerian correctional regulations during his imprisonment.
The panel, established by the Minister of Interior, , also recommended the prosecution of social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over alleged libel, incitement, and data privacy violations.
Bobrisky was sentenced to six months imprisonment on April 12, 2024, for naira abuse and was released on August 5, 2024, after completing his jail term.
The controversy began weeks after his release when VeryDarkMan published an audio recording allegedly containing a conversation involving Bobrisky. In the recording, Bobrisky was heard claiming that he paid ₦15 million to officials of the (EFCC) to drop money laundering charges against him. He also allegedly claimed to have bribed officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to allow him serve his sentence in a private apartment instead of prison custody.
The allegations sparked widespread public outrage, prompting the Federal Government to establish an investigative panel on September 30, headed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, .
According to the panel’s findings, Bobrisky was granted extraordinary privileges at both the Medium Security Custodial Centre and the Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Kirikiri, Lagos.
At the Medium Security Custodial Centre, he occupied a private cell equipped with a personal toilet and bathroom, floor carpet, television, refrigerator, humidifier, and specially installed lighting. He was also placed on self-feeding arrangements, with his brother and sister-in-law permitted to supply his meals. Family members and friends were reportedly allowed unrestricted access to visit him as often and in whatever numbers they desired.
The panel further stated that it could not determine whether the self-feeding arrangement at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre was officially approved.
At the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Bobrisky’s accommodation reportedly included wallpaper decorations, a large bed, carpet, humidifier, and a television located in an adjoining decorated room. An inmate previously attached to the Chief Warder’s office was assigned to attend to his personal needs.
He also reportedly received visitors at the officer-in-charge’s office whenever he wished, a privilege unavailable to ordinary inmates.
The report disclosed that Bobrisky was transported between the two Kirikiri custodial facilities in the operational vehicle of the Lagos State Controller and accompanied by the Controller himself.
One of the most significant discoveries made by the panel was a soundproofed door attached to Bobrisky’s private cell, designated Room A12, at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre. Investigators noted that the door differed from all others on the same floor and recommended a thorough investigation into the reason for the modification.
According to the panel, the soundproofing may have been connected to the alleged use of mobile phones inside the facility, which is prohibited under prison regulations. Investigators said they were convinced Bobrisky had access to mobile phones during his incarceration.
The panel recommended that the (DSS) investigate whether Bobrisky directly or indirectly bribed officials of the EFCC or NCoS. If evidence is established, it recommended prosecution under anti-corruption laws.
The panel also advised the Nigerian Correctional Service to institute defamation proceedings against Bobrisky under Sections 373 to 375 of the Criminal Code Act, arguing that his claims about circumventing prison procedures damaged the institution’s reputation.
Regarding VeryDarkMan, the panel recommended prosecution for libel under Sections 373 to 375 of the Criminal Code for allegedly spreading unverified claims against government officials and agencies. It also recommended charges under the Cybercrimes Act for alleged incitement through the dissemination of false information capable of undermining public confidence in public institutions.
Additionally, the panel urged the DSS to investigate whether VeryDarkMan unlawfully intercepted Bobrisky’s communications. If proven, it said he could face charges under Section 37 of the Cybercrimes Act relating to illegal interception of communications.