BOBRISKY: Corruption probe launched into Nigerian Correctional Service following allegations of misconduct

An independent panel tasked with investigating allegations of corruption and misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service has commenced its operations.

Uju Agomoh, the panel’s secretary, speaking during a session in Abuja on Tuesday, revealed that the panel is scrutinizing numerous cases involving senior officers at custodial centers nationwide, where the alleged misconduct is said to have occurred.

Agomoh explained that the panel’s mandate includes conducting a thorough investigation into specific incidents and proposing immediate measures to prevent future occurrences.

“Recent reports have highlighted cases of corruption, torture, cruelty, and inhumane treatment by correctional officers in Nigeria’s facilities,” Agomoh stated. “These accusations include breaking official rules, abusing authority, and mistreating inmates, which violate their rights and dignity.”

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She further detailed that the panel’s work will culminate in short-term, medium-term, and long-term recommendations aimed at reforming and enhancing the correctional system.

The establishment of this investigative panel was prompted by widespread controversy surrounding the case of cross-dresser Idris Okunneye, known as Bobrisky, particularly regarding the proper correctional facility where he served his sentence. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, initiated the probe in response to public concerns.

In addition to the Bobrisky case, the panel is also investigating allegations of corruption and extortion against Iloafonsi Ikechukwu, the officer in charge of Kuje custodial centre, who has been accused of threatening, intimidating, and defrauding an inmate.

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