An Independent Investigative Panel set up by the Federal Government has revealed details of the detention conditions of popular crossdresser and social media personality, Bobrisky, stating that he was housed in specially modified cells and enjoyed privileges beyond what is permitted under Nigerian correctional regulations.
The panel’s findings were contained in a report submitted to the Minister of Interior following an investigation into allegations surrounding Bobrisky’s imprisonment.
Bobrisky, whose real name is Okuneye Olanrewaju, served a six-month jail term after being convicted in April 2024 over naira abuse before regaining freedom in August of the same year.
The investigation was launched after social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), released an audio recording allegedly involving Bobrisky. In the recording, claims were made that money had been paid to influence official actions and that prison procedures had been bypassed.
The allegations triggered widespread public debate and prompted the Federal Government to establish a panel headed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalena Ajani.
According to the report, Bobrisky received what the panel described as exceptional treatment during his stay at both the Medium Security and Maximum Security Custodial Centres in Kirikiri, Lagos.
At the Medium Security facility, the panel said he occupied a private cell equipped with personal facilities and additional comforts including household appliances and customised lighting. Family members were reportedly permitted to provide meals, while visits from relatives and friends were allowed with unusual frequency.
The report stated that similar arrangements continued after his transfer to the Maximum Security facility, where his accommodation was allegedly upgraded with decorative fittings and additional furnishings.
Investigators also claimed that another inmate was assigned to assist with his personal needs and that visits took place under conditions not typically available to other inmates.
Among the report’s most notable findings was the discovery that the door to Bobrisky’s designated room had been fitted with soundproof padding — a feature the panel said differed from every other cell in the facility.
The panel noted that further inquiry would be necessary to determine the purpose of the modification and whether it had any connection to alleged unauthorised communication activities.
It also expressed concerns over alleged mobile phone use while in custody, despite restrictions on such privileges.
Based on its findings, the panel recommended that security agencies conduct further investigations into allegations involving possible inducement of officials and determine whether criminal charges should follow where evidence exists.
The report additionally recommended legal action over alleged defamatory claims and called for investigations into issues surrounding privacy breaches and the circulation of recorded conversations.
Authorities are yet to announce whether the recommendations will be adopted or if further legal action will follow.
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