The Federal Government of Nigeria has affirmed its commitment to ensuring that all individuals involved in the ongoing bribery scandal linked to popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, will face justice. The assurance came from Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, during a press briefing held in Abuja to commemorate his first year in office.
At the heart of this controversy lies the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), which has recently come under scrutiny for alleged corruption and misconduct. Reports surfaced that Bobrisky, who was sentenced to prison earlier this year, did not serve his time within the confines of the correctional facility. This revelation prompted Tunji-Ojo to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the allegations swirling around the NCoS, sparking widespread concern among the public about the integrity of the nation’s correctional system.
On Thursday, September 26, 2024, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board took decisive steps by suspending several senior officers within the prison service. Among those suspended were Michael Anugwa, the Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kiri-kiri, Lagos State, and Sikiru Adekunle, also a DCC overseeing the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in the same location.
The Board also suspended ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, stationed at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, on allegations of unlawfully escorting a convicted inmate out of the facility to an undisclosed location. Additionally, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, another Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) in charge of the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abuja, was suspended for allegedly receiving money on behalf of an inmate, further highlighting the extent of corruption within the ranks of the NCoS.
In his address, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of patience among Nigerians as the investigation unfolds. He reassured the public that all involved in the bribery scandal would be held accountable. “We will not spare anybody, no matter how highly placed,” he asserted. His words resonated with those who have been calling for transparency and accountability within the Nigerian correctional system, as the minister urged citizens to allow the investigation to run its course.
Despite the focus on Bobrisky, Tunji-Ojo clarified that the probe would extend beyond this particular case. “It is not just about Bobrisky. Of the four people we suspended, only two are linked to him. The one in Afikpo took somebody out. This will continue. It is not going to stop here,” he explained.
The investigation committee tasked with probing these allegations consists of individuals who are reputed for their integrity, according to the minister. “Look at the integrity of the people that are involved. Let the integrity of the people in the committee give you confidence,” Tunji-Ojo stated, aiming to instill faith in the public that the investigation would be thorough and fair.
As the investigation progresses, many Nigerians are watching closely, hoping for a resolution that restores confidence in the correctional system. The allegations against Bobrisky and the subsequent suspensions of high-ranking officials have sparked a broader conversation about corruption in Nigeria’s prison system, a topic that many believe has long been neglected.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s commitment to a thorough investigation and to holding all parties accountable reflects a growing recognition of the need for accountability in Nigeria’s public institutions. As citizens demand transparency, it is crucial for the government to not only address the immediate scandal but also to foster a culture of integrity and professionalism within the correctional services.
The fallout from this scandal may have far-reaching implications for the future of Nigeria’s correctional services. With heightened scrutiny from both the public and government officials, there is a glimmer of hope that this could be the catalyst for lasting change. The public’s eyes are now firmly fixed on the investigation, and many will be watching to see if the government can follow through on its promises of accountability and reform.
While the investigation unfolds, the hope remains that it will lead to significant reforms that will restore public confidence and ensure that justice is served for all. The journey toward a more transparent and accountable correctional system may be long, but with the right commitment and actions, it is a journey worth embarking.
