The Federal Government of Nigeria has ordered a full investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
This follows claims that some officials accepted bribes to prevent cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, from serving time in a custodial center despite a court sentence.
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the probe in a statement issued on Wednesday, which was signed by his media aide, Babatunde Alao. The minister emphasized that corruption and unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated.
“The Ministry will not tolerate any compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law,” said the Minister.
The allegations came to light after social activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, shared a leaked audio clip on social media. In the recording, Bobrisky allegedly discussed how his “godfather” ensured he did not serve time in prison despite being sentenced for mutilating the Nigerian currency. The clip also suggested that officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) demanded a ₦15 million bribe to drop money laundering charges against him.
In response, the Minister of Interior has formed a special investigative team led by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, to thoroughly investigate the matter.
“The investigation will be rigorous, transparent, and impartial. Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any personnel found guilty,” the Minister assured the public.
