The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Lagos State has issued clarifications regarding the status of Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, within its facility. Bobrisky is currently serving a six-month prison sentence for the abuse of the Nigerian currency.
Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos handed down the sentence on Friday, April 12, 2024, emphasizing its deterrent effect on others who engage in similar acts of currency abuse.
Recent reports, not from Punch, alleged that Bobrisky resided in a newly constructed VIP apartment within the Kirikiri correctional center. However, the NCoS, through its spokesperson, Rotimi Oladokun, refuted these claims, asserting that Bobrisky shares a cell with other convicted inmates. Oladokun clarified that there are no en-suite or luxurious accommodations within the Custodial Centre, as the infrastructure is designed for shared occupancy.
Furthermore, Oladokun emphasized that Bobrisky, remanded in a male Custodial Centre, adheres to all regulations, particularly regarding dress code, wearing male-designated correctional clothing.
Addressing concerns about special treatment, Oladokun affirmed that Bobrisky receives no preferential treatment and is subject to the same rules and amenities as other inmates. He also highlighted that all inmates, including Bobrisky, are entitled to family and legal visits, closely monitored by the NCoS.
An anonymous source within the correctional facility corroborated Oladokun’s statements, confirming that Bobrisky underwent standard procedures upon admission, revealing no gender realignment or anomalies.
Bobrisky’s legal entanglement stemmed from his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on April 3, 2024, following a video showing him spraying new naira notes at a movie premiere in Lagos. He pleaded guilty to charges of currency abuse, with the EFCC dismissing additional charges of money laundering.
Prior to his conviction, Bobrisky expressed remorse and ignorance of the laws governing currency abuse, pledging to educate his social media followers on the matter.