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An independent panel established by the Federal Government has released details of its findings into the controversy surrounding the imprisonment of Nigerian social media personality Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, alleging that the influencer enjoyed privileges beyond what is ordinarily allowed within the correctional system.
The development follows months of public debate that emerged after activist and social commentator VeryDarkMan shared an alleged audio recording in 2024, claiming Bobrisky suggested that efforts had been made by influential figures to secure favourable treatment during her legal troubles.
Bobrisky had previously been sentenced to six months imprisonment over naira abuse. However, attention later shifted from the original case to questions surrounding the conditions under which the sentence was allegedly served.
In response to the public outcry and allegations circulating online, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, constituted an independent investigative panel to examine the claims and determine whether due process was followed.
According to the panel’s report submitted to the ministry, investigators concluded that Bobrisky allegedly received treatment that exceeded standard custodial conditions at both the Medium Security and Maximum Security Custodial Centres located in Kirikiri, Lagos.
Among the findings highlighted in the report was the alleged availability of mobile phone access within correctional facilities, despite regulations restricting such privileges.
The panel further claimed that while at the medium security facility, Bobrisky stayed in what was described as a specially arranged private accommodation.
According to the report, the space allegedly included amenities such as a personal bathroom and toilet, improved lighting, carpeted flooring, a television, a refrigerator, and even a humidifier.
Investigators also stated that food arrangements appeared different from standard inmate procedures.
The report alleged that meals were regularly supplied by close relatives, specifically mentioning family members who reportedly delivered food throughout the period of incarceration.
At the maximum security custodial centre, the panel claimed additional privileges continued under what was described as a self-feeding arrangement.
However, investigators noted uncertainty over whether all administrative approvals for those arrangements had been properly documented.
The report further alleged that Bobrisky received visitors without the restrictions commonly associated with custodial operations.
According to investigators, friends and relatives allegedly had unusually broad access compared to standard visitation protocols applied to other inmates.
Additional findings stated that accommodation conditions at the maximum security centre allegedly included interior modifications and upgrades.
The report claimed that the space featured wallpaper, enhanced furnishing, carpeting, a humidifier, a larger bed, and an adjoining room reportedly equipped with a television.
Investigators also questioned the presence of a soundproofed door and suggested further inquiries would be needed to determine the purpose of such alterations and whether they were connected to unauthorised activities.
The panel additionally alleged that a former inmate was assigned responsibilities connected to Bobrisky’s welfare during custody after previously working in an administrative office within the correctional environment.
Another notable claim in the report involved transportation arrangements.
Investigators alleged that Bobrisky was at times moved using an official vehicle attached to the Lagos State Controller, with claims that senior correctional personnel personally accompanied some transfers.
Beyond prison-related concerns, the panel also addressed the controversy triggered by public allegations made during and after the case.
It recommended that the Department of State Services investigate possible corruption allegations involving officials of both the Nigerian Correctional Service and the EFCC.
Where evidence of misconduct is established, the report urged authorities to pursue prosecution.
The panel also recommended that the correctional authorities consider legal steps against Bobrisky over previous statements suggesting irregular prison arrangements.
In addition, investigators recommended legal scrutiny of VeryDarkMan, citing allegations involving libel, incitement, possible privacy violations, and dissemination of claims that authorities described as unverified.
As of the time of this report, no court has ruled on those recommendations, and no new criminal charges have been announced against either party.
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