On Monday, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo inaugurated an independent investigative panel to probe allegations of corruption and severe violations of standard operating procedures within the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
The New Daily Prime reported that social media influencer Martins ‘VeryDarkMan’ Otse leaked an audio recording in which controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, made damning allegations against the NCoS.
In the recording, Bobrisky claimed that during his six-month jail term, he was housed in a private apartment, a privilege allegedly arranged by his godfather through the Comptroller General of NCoS.
The leaked audio sparked widespread public debate, prompting the minister to order a formal investigation, alongside ongoing probes by the EFCC and the House of Representatives.
Announcing the latest development via his X account, Minister Tunji-Ojo revealed that the panel will be led by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
He stated that the committee has been tasked with investigating accusations of corruption, torture, and the mistreatment of inmates by correctional officers.
The statement read: “Today, I inaugurated an independent investigative panel to probe allegations of corruption and gross violations of standard operating procedures within the Nigeria Correctional Service NCoS.
“Headed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, the committee is charged with the responsibility of investigating allegations of corruption, torture, and mistreatment of inmates by correctional officers.
“During the inauguration, I noted that nobody, no matter how highly placed, will be shielded – and that in two weeks, the committee is expected to present their findings to the public.
“Also, given our commitment to ensure credibility, accountability, and transparency, the committee comprises officers of the ministry and 3rd party organisations including Omotese Eva (Mrs.), Director Legal; Nasir Usman, Director, Joint Services; Dr. Uju Agomoh, President, Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action, PRAWA, who is a former Board Member of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA); and Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo, Human Rights Radio consultant, who is a Forensic Researcher and Social Impact Expert with over 27 years experience in corporate leadership.”
