In response to growing concerns regarding a viral video that sparked allegations of misconduct among officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), the federal government has inaugurated an independent investigative panel.
This initiative, according to the minister of interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,
aims to effectively probe the allegations of corruption and gross violations relating to Mr. Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.
Inaugurating the panel, the minister emphasised that the establishment of the panel is crucial for sanitising the correctional service, promoting transparency, and ensuring accountability within the ranks of the agency.
Recall that the Minister, who also chairs the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), had taken disciplinary measures by suspending several officers overseeing the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres at Kirikiri, Lagos State, due to alleged misconduct involving the treatment of the crossdresser, Okuneye.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated, “We seek a holistic approach to thoroughly investigate these pressing issues through empirical and fact-finding processes that will provide lasting solutions.”
He highlighted the committee’s mandate to specifically investigate allegations of corruption, torture, and mistreatment of inmates, particularly those related to the recent case involving Bobrisky, which is expected to conclude within two weeks.
The minister asserted, “We will ensure that every action taken is in compliance with the law. No individual, regardless of their rank, will be shielded from accountability.”
Additionally, he tasked the committee with recommending medium- and long-term solutions to prevent future violations, identifying systemic issues within the service, and proposing concrete actions for urgent redress and policy reforms.
The panel is chaired by the ministry’s permanent secretary , Dr. Magdalene Ajani, and comprises a range of experts including: the ministry’s director of legal affairs , Mrs. Omotese Eva, director of joint services , Nasir Usman, president of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA) and former board member of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) Dr. Uju Agomoh, as well as , Human Rights Radio consultant, forensic researcher, and social impact expert , Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo,
Tunji-ojo buttressed that the federal government remains committed to reforming the correctional system and will continue to prioritise the welfare and rights of all inmates.
