The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) confirmed on Monday night the arrest of the controversial crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, at the Seme Border. According to the NIS, Bobrisky was trying to make a dash for it, fleeing Nigeria when he was intercepted by immigration officers.
DCI KT Udo, spokesperson for the NIS, described Bobrisky as a “person of interest” following ongoing public scandals and legal troubles. “He is undergoing interrogation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action,” Udo stated, promising that the Service will continue to act “civil and professional” in its duty of securing the nation’s borders.
The arrest only adds to Bobrisky’s already complicated legal battles. Earlier in the year, a blogger known as VeryDarkMan accused the social media sensation of paying ₦15 million to officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to drop money laundering charges tied to his infamous naira-spraying stunt in April 2024. Bobrisky was subsequently sentenced to six months in prison, from which he was released in August, though not without controversy.
According to the same blogger, Bobrisky allegedly paid additional millions to secure VIP treatment while in prison. The crossdresser reportedly had access to luxuries such as a furnished cell, fridge, and even a television—privileges most Nigerians can only dream of, let alone behind bars. Bobrisky, of course, has denied all these allegations, but investigations have been launched by both the EFCC and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
Even the Federal Government got involved, with the House of Representatives launching its own probe into the alleged corruption within the NCoS. Senior officers were suspended, and on September 30, 2024, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, inaugurated a special committee to dig into the gross misconduct allegations.
And what did the panel find? Well, it’s no surprise, Bobrisky served his six-month sentence, all right, but in high style. The report confirmed that the crossdresser was transferred between facilities and enjoyed perks such as a personal fridge, access to television, frequent visits from friends and family, and possibly even phone access. It’s safe to say that Bobrisky’s time behind bars didn’t resemble the tough prison life many Nigerians face.
