In a bold move to enhance transparency within Nigeria’s correctional system, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has inaugurated an independent investigative panel......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
This initiative comes in response to serious allegations of bribery involving popular figure, Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, and staff within the Nigeria Correctional Services (NCoS).
The panel was officially inaugurated on Monday, following the emergence of a leaked audio recording last week. In this recording, the voice purportedly belonging to
Bobrisky claims
that the intervention of a powerful ally allowed him to evade serving a six-month jail term at the notorious Kirikiri prison in Lagos.
These shocking allegations prompted the minister to take immediate action to address potential corruption and restore public confidence in the correctional system.
Dr Tunji-Ojo, while announcing the panel, stated that its mission is to cleanse the NCoS of corrupt practices and ensure the welfare of inmates.
He emphasised the importance of integrity within the service, saying, “We want to really reform the correctional service. Your core responsibility is to investigate specific allegations of corruption, torture, and mistreatment of inmates by correctional officers.”
The newly-formed panel will be led by Permanent Secretary Dr Magdalena Ajani, who has been tasked with driving the investigation forward.
Tunji-Ojo made it clear that the panel’s work is not just about handling the Bobrisky case; it aims to establish a precedent for addressing broader issues of corruption and mismanagement within the system.
He urged the team to conduct a thorough investigation and report back within two weeks, reinforcing the urgency of the matter.
In his address, the minister also stressed the importance of accountability, stating, “Nobody will be shielded. Nobody, no matter how highly placed, will be shielded.”
This statement serves as a strong message to all involved, signalling that the government is committed to uncovering the truth, regardless of the individuals implicated.
As the investigation unfolds, the panel will seek to uncover the facts surrounding the allegations against Bobrisky and any potential misconduct by correctional officers.
Dr Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in the legal guidance that the panel will rely on, ensuring that all actions taken are in accordance with the law.
By fostering a culture of accountability, the Minister aims to set a new standard for the NCoS, focusing on the humane treatment of inmates and the ethical conduct of staff.
As discussions surrounding corruption in Nigeria continue to gain momentum, this initiative signals a determined effort to tackle deep-rooted issues within the correctional system.
The Nigerian public will be watching closely to see how this investigation unfolds and what reforms will follow in its wake.