The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has responded to allegations surrounding the treatment of Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, during his incarceration. Abubakar Umar, Deputy Controller of Corrections and Service Public Relations Officer, clarified the service’s inmate admission process in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.
Umar reiterated the NCoS’s commitment to rehabilitation and inmate safety, stating that each individual undergoes a thorough assessment upon arrival at a custodial facility. This process determines security risks, behavioral needs, and potential challenges to ensure proper housing and rehabilitation.
Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison in April for mutilating the naira. However, recent controversy erupted after social media influencer Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), released an audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed to have spent his jail time in a private apartment and paid ₦15 million to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to drop money laundering charges against him.
In response to the allegations, the Federal Government on September 30 inaugurated an independent panel to investigate claims of corruption and violations of standard procedures within the NCoS, including the alleged preferential treatment for Bobrisky. The panel, established by Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, aims to scrutinize the behavior of correctional personnel and investigate whether alternative accommodation was provided for Bobrisky outside the correctional facility.
Umar emphasized that all inmates undergo the same rigorous admission process. “Upon conviction, each offender is evaluated by an admission board, which includes various officers who assess the inmate’s security risks, needs, and other factors that influence their rehabilitation,” he explained. This process ensures inmates are housed appropriately based on their risk level and needs.
Addressing Bobrisky’s specific case, Umar said, “When Bobrisky was admitted to our facility, he identified himself as male, and due to his unique characteristics, we ensured his placement in an appropriate cell to guarantee his safety.”
Umar acknowledged the ongoing investigation into the allegations but refrained from providing further details, stating that any conclusions would depend on the findings of the independent panel.
“The Minister has set up a committee to investigate the allegations regarding Bobrisky’s stay outside our custodial facility. Until the outcome of that investigation, I cannot provide additional details,” he concluded.
The NCoS has assured the public of its commitment to upholding standard procedures and maintaining fairness in its treatment of all inmates.
