The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has suspended several senior officers following a viral video involving popular social media personality Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky.
The video, which has been widely circulated on social media platforms, allegedly shows infractions by NCoS officers in relation to Bobrisky. In response, the Board took immediate action by suspending the following senior officers:
- Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), in charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kirikiri, Lagos State.
- Sikiru Adekunle, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), in charge of Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kirikiri, Lagos State.
The allegations suggest that these officers were involved in activities that contravene the ethical standards and operational guidelines of the NCoS.
Additionally, the Board has suspended ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, serving at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Afikpo, Ebonyi State. He is accused of allegedly accompanying a convicted inmate out of the custodial centre to an unauthorized location, a serious breach of protocol.
In another related development, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), in charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kuje, Abuja, has also been suspended. He is alleged to have received monies on behalf of an inmate, an act that violates the rules governing conduct within correctional facilities.
Thorough Investigation Ensues
The suspension of these officers is a preliminary step to allow for an unimpeded and comprehensive investigation into the various allegations. The Board assured the public that the outcomes of the investigations would be transparent and made public upon conclusion.
“The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board is committed to ensuring that the highest standards of professionalism and integrity are maintained within the Nigerian Correctional Service,” the Board stated. “Any officer found culpable will face the full weight of disciplinary action in accordance with the law.”
Maintaining Professional Standards
This action underscores the Board’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and corruption within the ranks of the NCoS. It serves as a stern warning to all officers about the importance of adhering strictly to the codes of conduct and operational procedures laid down by the Service.
The Board reiterated its dedication to reforming the correctional system and enhancing public trust. It called on all officers to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism and integrity, reflecting the values and responsibilities entrusted to them.
Public Reactions
The viral video and subsequent suspensions have sparked widespread discussions about the state of the Nigerian correctional system. Many citizens have expressed concerns over the alleged infractions and are calling for systemic reforms to prevent future occurrences.
Next Steps
The investigative process will involve:
- Reviewing the Viral Video: Scrutinizing the content to establish the validity of the allegations.
- Interviewing Relevant Parties: Speaking with the suspended officers, other staff members, and any witnesses.
- Assessing Operational Procedures: Evaluating whether there were lapses in adherence to established protocols.
The Board has pledged to carry out the investigation diligently and expediently, ensuring that justice is served and that any necessary corrective measures are implemented promptly.
Scepticism Greets Seeming Commitment to Discipline
Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has expressed deep skepticism about Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s directive to investigate alleged bribery and corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
Drawing from his own experiences, Soyombo recalled a similar promise made by former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola in 2019 after Soyombo’s undercover investigation exposed systemic corruption in the prison system. He noted that despite Aregbesola’s public commendation and vow to investigate, no tangible results emerged even after nearly five years.
Soyombo argues that such committees are often ineffective because they are composed of officials who may be complicit in the corruption they are supposed to investigate. He believes the rot within the NCoS is too deep for superficial committees to address and criticizes the practice of issuing perfunctory directives that serve more as publicity stunts than genuine efforts for reform. Soyombo calls for sincere actions from public officials to tackle the entrenched issues, emphasizing that becoming a functional society requires more than just media-friendly announcements but real commitment to change.
