The Federal Government has swiftly responded to recent revelations involving Nigerian cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky. Following an audio leak that surfaced online, it was alleged that Bobrisky, who was convicted and sentenced to six months in prison, was offered preferential treatment by prison officials. The leak suggested that Bobrisky was given access to an apartment outside the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres in Kirikiri, Lagos State.
In a statement released in Abuja on Thursday, Ja’afaru Ahmed, Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), announced the suspension of the officers involved. This decisive move comes after the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, launched a formal investigation into the allegations on Wednesday.
Ahmed clarified that the suspended officers include Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), and Sikiru Adekunle, Deputy Controller of Corrections responsible for the Maximum Security Custodial Centre. In addition, ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, stationed at the Afikpo Custodial Centre in Ebonyi State, was suspended for allegedly accompanying a convicted inmate outside the facility.
Another officer, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, Deputy Controller of Corrections in charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja, was also implicated for reportedly receiving bribes on behalf of an inmate.
The CDCFIB assured the public that a comprehensive investigation into the matter is ongoing, and the findings will be made public once concluded. This action signals the government’s commitment to addressing irregularities within the Nigerian Correctional Service and ensuring that no individual receives preferential treatment based on influence or status.
This development has sparked a debate online, with many calling for stricter reforms in the correctional system. Bobrisky, a controversial figure, has been the subject of several high-profile scandals in the past, but this incident has reignited conversations about corruption and misconduct in Nigerian institutions.
Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds, with both the public and officials closely monitoring the outcome.
