Bobrisky Under Investigation: FG Sets Up 5-Member Panel
The Federal Government has launched an independent panel to investigate claims of corruption and major breaches of operational procedures within the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
On Monday in Abuja, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, officially inaugurated the committee. He directed the panel to also examine recent accusations that some correctional officers provided alternative housing for convicted cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky.
The minister explained that the formation of the panel was essential to reforming the Correctional Service and promoting transparency and accountability. It follows the minister’s earlier suspension of several officials from Kirikiri Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres in Lagos due to alleged misconduct related to Bobrisky.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need for a thorough and evidence-based investigation to address the issues at hand and ensure lasting solutions. “Our goal is to reform the correctional service. Your main task is to investigate specific allegations of corruption, mistreatment of inmates, and other misconduct by correctional officers, with particular attention to the Bobrisky case, which I expect results on within two weeks,” he stated.
The committee is chaired by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. The minister urged the committee to act impartially and uphold justice, adding that no one, regardless of status, would be protected from scrutiny.
“We will depend on your legal expertise to ensure all actions comply with the law. Your findings will guide us in formulating solutions and making the necessary information available to Nigerians,” he said.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further tasked the panel with identifying systemic issues that contribute to these violations and offering both short- and long-term recommendations to prevent future incidents.
The committee, led by Dr. Ajani, is made up of key individuals, including Omotese Eva, Director of Legal; Nasir Usman, Director of Joint Services; Dr. Uju Agomoh, President of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA); and Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo, a forensic researcher and human rights consultant with over 27 years of experience in corporate leadership.
