In a revealing interview with the renowned singer, Charly Boy, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, delves into the genesis of his transition into becoming one of Nigeria’s most talked-about transgender personalities. Bobrisky, a figure synonymous with controversy and flamboyance, traces his journey back to his university days at the University of Lagos where he was pursuing an Accounting degree while running a unisex clothing business on the side.
Bobrisky’s foray into crossdressing began innocently as a marketing ploy to boost his clothing business. He found that donning female outfits not only garnered attention but significantly increased patronage, particularly from female customers. “I started trying on female wears for myself, and I loved how they looked on me. With female hairstyles and makeup, my business began to thrive even more,” Bobrisky explained. What started as a strategic move to enhance business sales inadvertently paved the way for his deeper exploration of gender identity.
Despite the initial success and positive feedback on his appearance as a female, Bobrisky did not immediately foresee a permanent transition into living as a transgender woman. “It was just a marketing strategy at first, but then people started complimenting me, saying I looked better as a woman than a man. That’s how I ended up being Bobrisky,” he shared, reflecting on the unexpected turn his life took due to his business decision.
Facing resistance from his family, particularly his parents, was an inevitable part of Bobrisky’s journey. However, over time, they came to accept his new identity, allowing him to fully embrace his true self. This acceptance marked a significant milestone in Bobrisky’s personal and public life, reinforcing his decision to live as a transgender woman.
Bobrisky’s story highlights the complex interplay between personal identity and societal perceptions, illustrating how what began as a superficial business tactic evolved into a profound journey of self-discovery and acceptance. As Bobrisky continues to navigate the challenges and triumphs of living as a transgender woman in Nigeria, his story serves as a testament to the transformative power of embracing one’s true self, regardless of societal norms and expectations.
