Bobrisky: New panel to investigate concerns in Nigeria’s correctional service

On Monday, September 30, the Federal Government announced the start of a new team to look into claims of wrongdoing in the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

The team was introduced by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a meeting in Abuja.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained that the team needs to investigate serious claims that some staff in the correctional service helped convicted cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, find a special place to stay. He emphasized that this investigation is important for making the service more transparent and responsible.

Recently, several officers in charge of the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres in Kirikiri, Lagos State, were suspended due to concerns about their behavior involving Bobrisky. Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that it is crucial to understand all the issues through careful investigation.

“We want to reform the correctional service. Your main job is to look into specific claims of corruption, mistreatment, and any harm done to inmates by correctional officers, especially the one about Bobrisky, which I expect to be completed in two weeks,” he said.

The committee will be led by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry. Dr. Tunji-Ojo asked the group to ensure fairness and to follow the law while conducting their work.

He said, “We will rely on your legal guidance to make sure that whatever we do is in line with the law of the land. We want to find a way forward and share the facts with Nigerians. I want to make this very clear: nobody will be protected, no matter how important they are.”

The minister also urged the team to think of both short-term and long-term solutions to stop similar problems from happening again. He asked them to identify the reasons for these issues and suggest clear actions for improvement.

Dr. Magdalene Ajani, who leads the investigation team, promised to do their best to fulfill their responsibilities.

The team includes:
– Omotese Eva (Mrs.), Director of Legal Affairs
– Nasir Usman, Director of Joint Services
– Dr. Uju Agomoh, President of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA) and a former board member of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA)
– Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo, a consultant at Human Rights Radio and an expert in social impact with over 27 years of experience in leadership.