The Nigerian government has suspended several prison officials over allegations of misconduct involving the handling of cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.

This follows an audio leak suggesting that Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months in prison, was granted unauthorized access to an apartment outside the custodial centre.

A social media influencer, Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, had alleged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) dropped money laundering charges against Bobrisky after receiving N15 million.

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) announced the suspensions on Thursday, following an investigation initiated by the Interior Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Ja’afaru Ahmed, Secretary of the CDCFIB, said in a statement that the suspended officials include Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kirikiri; Sikiru Adekunle, DCC in charge of the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kirikiri; and ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, who served at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Afikpo, Ebonyi State.

Additionally, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, DCC in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kuje, Abuja, has also been suspended for allegedly accepting bribes on behalf of an inmate.

The government has assured the public that the investigation into the matter is ongoing and that the findings will be made public upon completion.