- Dr Tunji-Ojo noted the need for a holistic approach to unravel the issues being investigated, through empirical and fact-finding processes that, will proffer lasting solutions to the challenges.
- The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, who is also the Chairperson of the Investigation Panel, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stated that the committee would do their best to deliver on the mandate.
The federal government has inaugurated an independent investigative panel to probe allegations of corruption and gross violations of standard operating procedures within the Nigeria Correctional Service NCoS, specifically regarding convicted cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky.
“In a bold move to sanitize the system, the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has inaugurated a 6-member independent investigative panel to uncover the truth,” said Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and Chairperson of the Investigation Panel.
The panel’s primary focus is to investigate claims of corruption, torture, and mistreatment of inmates by correctional officers, particularly the recent allegations surrounding Bobrisky’s alternative accommodation.
To achieve transparency and accountability, the Minister emphasized the need for a holistic approach, employing empirical and fact-finding processes to provide lasting solutions.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stressed, “We aim to reform the correctional service, ensuring justice without fear or favor.” The committee is expected to submit its findings within two weeks.
The Minister also tasked the panel with identifying systemic issues contributing to violations and recommending concrete actions for immediate redress and policy reforms.
The committee comprises experts from various fields, including law, corrections, and human rights, ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation.
As Bobrisky was recently released from the Kirikiri Correctional Centre on August 5 after serving his term, this probe aims to address deeper issues within the correctional system.