Okuneye Idris Olarenwaju aka Bobrisky is a Nigerian internet personality, crossdresser, and entrepreneur known for his controversial and flamboyant lifestyle.
He gained popularity through social media, particularly Snapchat and Instagram, where he shares photos and videos showcasing his makeup, fashion, and extravagant lifestyle. Bobrisky has attracted both admiration and criticism for challenging gender norms and stereotypes in Nigeria. Additionally, he has ventured into various business endeavors, including skincare products and cosmetics.
In addition to his social media presence, Bobrisky has leveraged his popularity to build a brand around beauty and fashion. He has launched his own line of skincare products and cosmetics, which have garnered attention and sales. Despite facing criticism and controversy, Bobrisky has remained resilient and continues to grow his following and expand his business ventures. His influence extends beyond social media, as he has also been featured in interviews and media appearances, sparking conversations about gender identity and expression in Nigeria and beyond.
Early life and Education
Idris Okuneye was born on August 31, 1992, in Nigeria. He grew up in a conservative Nigerian household and initially pursued studies in Accounting at the University of Lagos. Even as a young child, they showed a strong sense of fashion and style, and their sense of style became even more flamboyant when he began attending university.
In his early 20s, he moved to London to pursue a career in fashion. It was during this time that he began to explore their gender identity, and he began to express themselves in ways that were more fluid and experimental. It was also during this time that he began to use social media to share their style and express their individuality.
Exposure
Bobrisky’s transformation from Idris Okuneye to the persona of Bobrisky has been a central aspect of his rise to fame. He began experimenting with cross-dressing and makeup during his early adulthood, gradually embracing a more flamboyant and glamorous image. Through his presence on social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, Bobrisky documented his transformation journey, sharing photos and videos of his evolving style and persona.
Over time, Bobrisky gained confidence in expressing himself authentically, defying societal norms and expectations. His boldness in challenging traditional gender roles and his unapologetic attitude toward self-expression quickly attracted a large following. Bobrisky’s transformation also extended beyond his physical appearance, as he cultivated a distinct online persona characterized by humor, confidence, and glamour.
Despite facing criticism and controversy, Bobrisky has remained steadfast in his identity, using his platform to advocate for acceptance and self-love. His transformation serves as a testament to the power of embracing one’s individuality and defying societal constraints, inspiring others to be unapologetically themselves.
Influence
Bobrisky is known for his outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ rights, and he used their platform to challenge traditional gender roles and expectations. He has spoken out about the discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTQ community in Nigeria, and also used his platform to promote self-acceptance and self-love. Some of their most well-known quotes include “Love yourself first” and “Do not be afraid to be different.”
In 2016, according to Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Google’s Communications and Public Affairs Manager for West Africa, Bobrisky was the most searched individual in Nigeria from 26 October to November, showing how much he had grown into a public figure in the eyes of the ones that he had rubbed off on.
Controversies
Being a cross dresser in Nigeria, you are sure to face backlash from anywhere. One of the most high-profile controversies was when they were arrested in 2019 for allegedly “cross-dressing” and “encouraging homosexuality.” While he was released a few hours later, the incident sparked debate about the rights of LGBTQ people in Nigeria, where same-sex relationships are illegal. Bobrisky has also been embroiled in feuds with other celebrities, and he has been accused of fraud and money laundering.
Legal issues
In April 2024, Bobrisky was arrested by the EFCC for allegedly defacing naira banknotes, following an investigation. The charges stemmed from social media videos that appeared to show her throwing money in the air at a film premiere the previous month. He entered a guilty plea to four counts of currency abuse on April 5, 2024.
It’s possible that he could be facing six months of prison time as penalty.
Net Worth
Bobrisky’s net worth in 2024 is estimated to be approximately $1.6 million, predominantly earned through his social media influence, endorsement deals, and merchandise sales.