By Elizabeth Chimobi
The names of senior officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) suspended over allegations of bribery involving controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, have been revealed.
In response to these allegations, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board issued a statement on Thursday, signed by Ja’afaru Ahmed, announcing the suspension of the officers linked to the scandal.
This was confirmed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, via a post on his official Facebook page.
List of Suspended Officials:
- Michael Anugwa: Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kirikiri, Lagos State.
- Sikiru Adekunle: Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), in charge of the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kirikiri, Lagos State.
- ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna: Officer at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Afikpo, Ebonyi State, suspended for allegedly escorting a convicted inmate to an unauthorized location.
- Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu: Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kuje, Abuja, suspended for allegedly accepting bribes on behalf of an inmate.
The board emphasized that these suspensions are intended to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the allegations. In a statement, it said, “Following the viral video circulating on social media concerning alleged misconduct by officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service involving Mr. Idris Okuneye, aka Bobrisky, the board has suspended the following senior officers pending further investigation.”
The Minister of Interior, along with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the NCoS, and the House of Representatives, has ordered an inquiry into the incident. The board has assured the public that the findings will be made available once the investigation concludes.