In a crackdown on corruption in the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), the Federal Government has suspended several senior officials following bribery allegations involving controversial figure Idris Okuneye, known widely known as Bobrisky. The scandal erupted when social media influencer Martins Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, released a viral recording accusing Bobrisky of receiving preferential treatment during his six-month jail term for misusing naira money through a bribe of N15 million.
The suspended individuals include Michael Anugwa and Sikiru Adekunle, Deputy Controllers of Corrections at the Kirikiri Minimum and Maximum Supervision Center in Lagos. Also, Ogbule Samuel Obinna, an Assistant Director of Corrections II based in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, was also suspended for allegedly escorting a convicted prisoner outside the facility. The action follows an investigation initiated by the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, prompted by the said allegations.
The scandal not only concerns the NCoS but also hints at wider corruption, with Bobrisky allegedly stating in a leaked recording that he paid N15 million to officials of the Commission Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to have money laundering charges dropped, focusing only on his alleged abuse of naira. This has led to demands for transparency and accountability from both the NCoS and the EFCC.
The Defense, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) confirmed the suspension, with Ja’afaru Ahmed, the board’s secretary, saying the measures were part of an ongoing investigation take place. The findings of this probe are expected to be published, demonstrating a commitment to cleaning up the system.
The case has sparked discussions about corruption in Nigeria’s judicial system, where preferential treatment, especially for those with financial resources, undermines the principle of equality before the law. Critics say such revelations tarnish the image of correctional agencies and erode public trust in government institutions.
In response, Bobrisky’s legal team, through a letter from Femi Falana, demanded the retraction of the defamatory statements made by VeryDarkMan within 24 hours, escalating the public controversy into a confrontation. legal head.
