The Nigerian Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has launched an investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOS).
This action comes in the wake of controversial claims surrounding the treatment of Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, a well-known Nigerian crossdresser.
Minister Tunji-Ojo’s spokesperson, Babatunde Alao, released a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, detailing the formation of a special investigative panel.
The panel, headed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, includes prominent figures such as Uju Agomuoh from Prisoners’ Rehabilitation And Welfare Action (PRAWA) as secretary, and other key members from various departments and organizations.
“The Ministry will not tolerate any compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law,” Minister Tunji-Ojo stated, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to corruption within the paramilitary services under his ministry’s jurisdiction.
The investigation was prompted by allegations that surfaced on social media. Martins Otse, known as ‘VeryDarkMan’, leaked an audio recording purportedly featuring Bobrisky. In this recording, Bobrisky allegedly claimed to have paid a ₦15 million bribe to have charges against him dropped and to be transferred to a private apartment instead of serving time in prison.
Bobrisky had been sentenced to six months in jail without the option of a fine on April 12, following charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for abusing the Naira during his last birthday celebration.
The controversy deepened when ‘VeryDarkMan’ implicated several high-profile individuals, including lawyer and activist Femi Falana and his son, musician Falz, in allegedly assisting Bobrisky.
In response to these allegations, Falz took to Instagram on Wednesday, threatening legal action against the influencer and demanding a retraction of the statements within 24 hours.
The Minister’s office has assured the public that the investigation will be “rigorous, transparent, and impartial.”
The panel is expected to submit a comprehensive report, after which appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any personnel found guilty of misconduct.
