The Federal Government has set up an independent investigative panel to probe allegations of corruption and violations of standard operating procedures within the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
This panel was inaugurated by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Monday in Abuja.
Among the key issues to be investigated is the allegation that convicted cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, was provided alternative accommodation by some correctional personnel after his conviction. This particular case sparked public outrage and led to the suspension of several officers at the Kirikiri Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres in Lagos State.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo, who also chairs the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), stressed the importance of sanitizing the Correctional Service to ensure transparency and accountability. “We want to reform the correctional service,” he said.
“Your core responsibility is to investigate specific allegations of corruption, torture, and mistreatment of inmates by correctional officers, especially the immediate one on Bobrisky which I expect to be out in two weeks.”
The Minister tasked the committee with a thorough and fact-based investigation, urging them to uphold justice without fear or favor. He emphasized that no individual, regardless of status, would be shielded from the investigation.
“Nobody, no matter how highly placed, will be shielded,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo declared.
The panel is chaired by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. Other members include Mrs. Omotese Eva, Director of Legal; Nasir Usman, Director of Joint Services; Dr. Uju Agomoh, President of the Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA); and Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo, a forensic researcher and social impact expert.
In her remarks, Dr. Ajani affirmed the committee’s commitment to delivering on its mandate, ensuring that the investigation identifies systemic issues contributing to violations and recommends solutions for long-term reforms.
The committee is also tasked with proposing policy reforms and offering immediate redress for the issues uncovered.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s expectation for a comprehensive report within two weeks, especially regarding the Bobrisky case, as part of broader efforts to overhaul the correctional service system.