NCoS has shared the latest updates on its investigation into Bobrisky, shedding light on key findings. Read more about the current status of the probe.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that an investigation is underway concerning the detention of well-known crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky. The results have not yet been disclosed.
Abubakar Umar, the Deputy Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer, announced this in Abuja.
Umar highlighted the NCoS’s commitment to inmate rehabilitation and safety by implementing a thorough admission process for prisoners.
Bobrisky, who was found guilty of naira mutilation in April, was sentenced to six months in prison.
Remember that Mr. Vincent Otse, a social media influencer and human rights activist known as Very Dark Man (VDM), released an audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claims to have served his jail term in a private apartment.
The audio reportedly recorded Bobrisky stating that he allegedly paid N15 million to officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to have money laundering charges against him dismissed.
On Monday, September 30, the Federal Government launched an independent investigative panel to investigate allegations of corruption and significant breaches of standard operating procedures within the NCoS.
Read Also: VeryDarkMan Issues Apology to Falana Amid Bobrisky Bribery Allegations
The Minister of the Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who inaugurated the committee, stated that it must also investigate recent allegations suggesting some correctional service personnel had arranged alternative accommodation for Bobrisky.
Umar clarified that inmates receive thorough evaluations to assess security risks, needs, and responsiveness issues when they are brought to custodial centers.
He stated that the admission board assesses each inmate to guarantee safe housing and effective rehabilitation.
Umar, who detailed the service’s stringent admission process for inmates, emphasized that adhering to human rights principles through this approach is also of utmost importance.
Once an offender is convicted or awaiting trial and brought to our facility, they undergo a specific process both before and during admission.
During the admission process, there is a committee known as the admission board. This board includes the officer in charge, their deputy, the medical officer responsible for the custodial center, the record officer, and other relevant officials.
“They will review the information contained in the warrants. Additionally, before he is assigned a cell, there will be a process known as security determination.”
“Determining security involves assessing an individual’s risks, including self-harm and the safety of other inmates and officers. Additionally, a needs assessment is conducted to focus on criminogenic need areas.”
These are behaviors that might lead to criminal conduct or highlight other criminological needs. We evaluate these factors before assigning a cell to an inmate.
Additionally, we examine what we call responsivity issues. These are factors that might impact his involvement in interventions or complicate his adjustment to life in custody.
“So, once all this has been considered, it will be decided which cell the inmates will be assigned to,” he asserted.
According to Umar, when Bobrisky appeared in court and was later admitted to our facility, he declared his gender as male. However, it’s important to remember that there are other characteristics associated with him.
Due to those determinations—specifically the classification and assessment of the security level of the custodial center—he was assigned an appropriate cell in which he was kept.
This is also to ensure that he remains safe and not under threat within our custodial centers.
One thing I want to mention is that the Minister of Interior has established a committee to investigate the alleged claim about Bobrisky staying outside our custodial center.
“Therefore, until the findings or results of these investigations are determined, I believe we should leave it as is.”
“I am simply informing you that once an inmate or individual is convicted and brought to our custodial centers, we follow a standard protocol for their treatment during admission.”
“They will undergo evaluations that help us assess their security risk to both themselves and the custodial center.”
“Regarding whether he was held in our custodial facilities or outside, I cannot comment further until the investigation into the allegations is concluded,” he stated.
