Prison experts have clarified the reasons behind the separation of controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, from other inmates at the correctional center, while refuting claims of a VIP section.
During an appearance on Arise TV’s *The Morning Show*, Bishop Kayode Williams, Director General of the Prison Rehabilitation Mission, explained that different accommodations are provided for various categories of inmates. He said, “There are accommodations for condemned prisoners, those sentenced to death, who must not mingle with other inmates. The second category is for convicted inmates, who are the actual residents of the prison.”
Addressing Bobrisky’s case, Williams stated, “With Idris’ transgender appearance, the authorities had to determine how to handle his accommodation. He was placed in protective custody because his feminine appearance could put him at risk in the general prison population, particularly among inmates who may take advantage of the situation.”
Former National Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Francis Enobore, supported this view, explaining that inmates are profiled to ensure their safety and maintain a secure environment within the prison. He noted, “Even though he identified as male in court, his appearance suggested otherwise, and some prisoners are unrepentant homosexuals. Without special protection, there could be serious security risks.”
Enobore, however, denied allegations of Bobrisky receiving preferential treatment, stating, “There is no such thing as a private apartment or special treatment in prison.”
Controversy arose earlier in the week when a voice note allegedly from Bobrisky surfaced, in which he claimed his godfather and the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service arranged for him to serve his sentence in a private apartment following his conviction for abuse of naira notes in April.
In response to the claims, two deputy controllers of the Kirikiri Medium Custodial Centre in Lagos were suspended by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board on Thursday in connection to the alleged bribery surrounding Bobrisky’s case.
