By Hillary Asemota
The Independent Investigative Panel on alleged corruption, abuse of power, torture, cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) held on Monday 21st October, unveiled its finding even as it said that the self-styled cross-dresser popularly known as Bobrisky, is however not guilty of infractions while he cooled off at the correctional centre.
In a statement made available to the media on Monday, said: “The Committee investigated allegations regarding the treatment and privileges granted to Mr. Idris Okuneye aka Bobrisky during his recent incarceration.
The panel did not find any evidence that suggested that he slept outside the Custodial Centre during the period of his imprisonment.
“The report findings, presented by the Secretary of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Uju Agomoh, highlighted several critical issues uncovered during the phase 1 of the investigation.
“The panel however noted that there were irregularities in his transfers between custodial centres, including backdated documentation.
Additionally, Okuneye enjoyed privileges such as a furnished single cell, frequent visits, and access to amenities, raising concerns about possible preferential treatment and corruption
Speaking while receiving the report, the Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, commended the panel for its thorough and diligent work, which began 3 weeks ago with a commitment to transparency and institutional reform.
He reiterated the Ministry’s stance on zero tolerance for corruption, abuse of power, and any form of human rights violations, stressing that the investigation is part of a broader effort to build a transformative correctional service.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service is a key institution within our justice system and national security architecture, and we will not condone any form of cruelty, inhumane treatment, or malfeasance.” the Minister stated.
Tunji-Ojo, assured that officers found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary actions and that this initiative marked the beginning of a comprehensive reform to create a rehabilitative and corrective correctional service.
“We have a duty to ensure that our correctional institutions are places of rehabilitation and not of suffering. This report is a first step in a long journey to restore integrity and human rights in our correctional system. We will not tolerate any form of misconduct or abuse within our custodial facilities,” he reiterated.
Mr. Ozoya imohimi, Director of Public Affairs, in the statement said: “In the same vein, Chairman of the Committee and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency throughout the reform process, noting that “this first phase of the report serves as a foundational step towards achieving best practices in line with international standards for correctional services.
“The report findings, presented by the Secretary of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Uju Agomoh, highlighted several critical issues uncovered during the phase 1 of the investigation.”
