Prison experts have clarified the reasons behind the separation of controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, from other inmates at the correctional facility, while denying the existence of a VIP section.
Speaking on Arise TV’s *The Morning Show* on Friday, the Director General of the Prison Rehabilitation Mission, Bishop Kayode Williams, detailed the different categories of accommodations provided for inmates. He explained that there are specific sections for condemned prisoners, those sentenced to death, and convicted inmates, who make up the general prison population.
Addressing Bobrisky’s case, Williams said, “Given his transgender appearance, placing Idris in the general male cell would pose a significant risk to his safety. Therefore, he was placed in a protective custody unit to prevent potential harm, as some inmates could exploit his vulnerability due to his feminine appearance.”
Former National Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Francis Enobore, supported Williams’ statement, emphasizing that the service assesses each inmate to ensure their safety and maintain order within the prison. He stated, “While Bobrisky identified as male in court, his appearance could make him a target. Without proper precautions, his presence could create a serious security issue.”
Enobore dismissed allegations that Bobrisky was given a private section, insisting, “There is no provision for private apartments or special treatment in the prison.”
The controversy surrounding Bobrisky’s incarceration emerged earlier this week after activist Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, shared a voice recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed that his godfather and the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service arranged for him to serve his six-month sentence in a private apartment.
In response to the allegations, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board announced the suspension of two deputy controllers of the Kirikiri Medium Custodial Centre in Lagos, pending an investigation into the bribery claims.
