The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared that no one involved in the alleged bribery scandal surrounding crossdresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, will evade punishment.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this commitment during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, September 27, marking his first year in office.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo has ordered a thorough investigation into bribery and corruption allegations within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) after reports surfaced that Bobrisky, sentenced to prison earlier this year, did not serve his time in the correctional facility.
As part of this investigation, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board announced the suspension of several senior prison officers on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The suspended officials include Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kiri-kiri, Lagos, and Sikiru Adekunle, also a DCC at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kiri-kiri.
Additionally, ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna from the Afikpo facility in Ebonyi State was suspended for allegedly escorting a convicted inmate outside the prison, while Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, another DCC in Kuje, Abuja, was suspended for allegedly receiving money on behalf of an inmate.
During the briefing, Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to be patient as the investigation unfolds, assuring the public that all involved will face consequences.
“We will not spare anybody, no matter how highly placed. Let’s be patient. Investigation is ongoing, but be assured that nobody will be shielded or protected,” he emphasized.
He also noted that the investigation extends beyond just Bobrisky, stating, “Of the four people we suspended, only two are linked to Bobrisky. This will continue, and it is not going to stop here.”
Dr. Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in the integrity of the investigation committee, urging the public to trust those involved. “Look at the integrity of the people that are part of this. Let their integrity give you confidence,” he added.
