Minister Orders Investigation into Alleged Corruption Following Bobrisky EFCC Bribery Allegations

The Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed an unconditional and comprehensive investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). This decisive action follows recent Bobrisky EFCC bribery allegations involving popular social media personality Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, and content creator VeryDarkMan (VDM).

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently invited both Bobrisky and VDM to assist in investigations concerning a ₦15 million bribery allegation. Reports from Premium Times Nigeria suggest that Bobrisky was accused by VDM of offering a bribe to influence legal proceedings and evade incarceration. These allegations have sparked public outrage and brought to light systemic issues within Nigeria’s justice and correctional systems.

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo unequivocally condemned the alleged reprehensible behavior, emphasizing that any form of indiscipline, unprofessionalism, and corruption will be met with zero tolerance and severe consequences within the paramilitary services under the Ministry’s purview.

“The Ministry will not tolerate any compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law,” Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo stated.

To address these serious allegations, the Minister has established a special investigative panel headed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani. The committee is tasked with probing the corruption claims and submitting a comprehensive report with recommendations for corrective actions.

Members of the Investigative Committee:

Dr. Uju Agomuoh of Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), serving as the Secretary.
Mrs. Eva Omatese, Director of Legal, Ministry of Interior.
Mr. Usman Nasiru, Director of Joint Services, Ministry of Interior.
Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugo (Consultant Iyke) of The Brekete Family Show.
The Minister reassured the public that the investigation would be rigorous, transparent, and impartial.

“Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any personnel found guilty,” he affirmed.

Background of the Bobrisky EFCC Bribery Allegations

The controversy began when VDM publicly accused Bobrisky of attempting to bribe officials with ₦15 million to evade justice in a pending legal matter. According to the Premium Times, VDM alleged that Bobrisky sought to influence the outcome of legal proceedings related to charges of alleged money laundering.

In response to these allegations, the EFCC extended invitations to both Bobrisky and VDM to assist in their investigation. The EFCC stated that their involvement would help clarify the circumstances surrounding the bribery claims and ensure that justice is served without prejudice.

Public Outcry and Demand for Accountability

The Bobrisky EFCC bribery allegations have intensified public demand for accountability and reform within the correctional services. Many citizens have expressed shock and concern over the possibility that influential individuals could manipulate the justice system to their advantage.

Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has also highlighted systemic issues within Nigeria’s correctional facilities. In his exposés, Soyombo revealed how individuals with financial means and influence allegedly manipulate legal processes.

“People with pending cases sometimes pay their way out of trouble. Inmates have been known to live outside the prison while supposedly serving their sentences, staying in hotels or luxurious apartments,” Soyombo stated. “There are cases where court officials assist accused persons in perfecting bail conditions within hours, allowing them to avoid incarceration entirely.”

He further alleged that some inmates enjoy privileges such as access to contraband substances, the ability to host parties, and even opportunities to erase their prison records.

“Some of those comments you read on social media are made from inside prison cells,” Soyombo added, highlighting the porous nature of the system.

Minister’s Commitment to Upholding Justice

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing these concerns. By integrating these issues into the scope of the investigation, the Ministry aims to tackle systemic problems and implement reforms that will ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law.

“Some of us do the work we do because we understand how our institutions have been compromised,” Soyombo remarked. “But we are sometimes labeled as ‘enemies of progress’ and face harassment for exposing the truth.”

The Minister called on the public to support the committee’s efforts and to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation.

“We are committed to restoring faith in our justice system and ensuring that no individual, regardless of status or influence, is above the law,” Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo declared.

Next Steps

The investigative committee is expected to:

Conduct thorough interviews with relevant parties, including Bobrisky, VDM, and correctional officers.

Review legal documents and court proceedings related to the allegations.

Assess the procedures followed by correctional officers and judicial staff to identify any lapses or misconduct.

Nigerians expect that rhe establishment of the investigative panel will represent a significant step toward addressing corruption within Nigeria’s correctional system. The outcomes of this investigation could lead to substantial reforms aimed at strengthening institutional integrity and ensuring equal justice for all citizens.

By focusing on the Bobrisky EFCC bribery allegations, the Ministry of Interior demonstrates its dedication to combating corruption and reinforcing the nation’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

 

Subscribe to Notifications