Bobrisky: A Crossdresser Always Mired in Controversies

By Fatima Idakwo,

Idris Okuneye Olanrewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, has been synonymous with controversy for years. Since 2011, Bobrisky has consistently found himself entangled in one contentious situation after another, solidifying his reputation as Nigeria’s most recognizable crossdresser.

Bobrisky’s rise to fame was marked by a significant and controversial incident that set the tone for his career. In 2011, at just 19 years old, he was arrested by the police after being caught dressed as a woman to solicit male attention at a bar in Surulere, Lagos State.

Images of Bobrisky in female clothing spread across the internet, introducing him to the public in a scandalous light. However, this was just the beginning. It wasn’t until his partnership with fashion designer Toyin Lawani—and their eventual falling out—that Bobrisky truly exploded onto the social media scene.

Since then, he has become a master at staying in the spotlight, constantly embroiled in public disputes, feuds, and controversies. In today’s digital age, where staying relevant often depends on how much one is talked about, it’s easy to believe that Bobrisky’s headline-grabbing antics may be part of a calculated strategy to maintain his fame.

One of the latest controversies surrounding Bobrisky came to light on September 25, 2024, when an audio recording surfaced in which he allegedly claimed to have bribed officials at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to dismiss criminal charges against him.

The recording was released by activist and social media personality VeryDarkMan (Martin Victor Otse), who is known for exposing corrupt activities. This new scandal dates back to April 2024, when Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison for naira abuse.

While the public believed that he had served his time at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, the leaked audio suggests otherwise. In the recording, Bobrisky is heard telling a friend that he had been housed in a secret location for the duration of his supposed sentence, thanks to a powerful godfather who intervened on his behalf.

This revelation has raised questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system, and the influence Bobrisky wields among the country’s elite. As this exposé has gained traction, the Federal Ministry of Interior has launched an investigation, and Bobrisky, along with others, was summoned by the House of Representatives to explain his role in the affair.

It seems this saga is far from over, and Bobrisky may be facing even more serious consequences as the names of influential figures behind the scenes begin to emerge. Adding to the complexity of the situation, Bobrisky posted a cryptic message on social media hinting at suicidal thoughts shortly after the recording went public.

Though he later deleted the post, it raised concerns about his mental health during this turbulent period. As Bobrisky continues to navigate the fallout from this scandal, many are left wondering whether his constant embroilment in controversy is a result of his relentless pursuit of fame and relevance, or whether these situations are simply the price he pays for staying in the limelight.

*Fatima Idakwo is an intern at PR Nigeria and can be reached via: [email protected].*