The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has ordered a full scale investigation into bribery in the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Tunji-Ojo didn’t mention specific cases but this came after a viral video by Martins Otse popularly known as VeryDarkMan. In the video, Idris Okuneye popularly known as Bobrisky alleged that after he was sentenced, his godfather in collaboration with the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service arranged for him to serve his six (6) months jail term in a private residence.
In the clip, Bobrisky said: “There’s jealousy involved. When I went to court, I pleaded guilty, expecting a fine or community service but the court sentenced me.
“On my way to prison, my godfather called me and said I wouldn’t go to prison. He told me not to worry and said he would arrange an apartment near the prison. He spoke directly with the Comptroller General of Prisons in Abuja.
“After their conversation, I was taken to an apartment and told to stay there until my sentence was completed.
“The person in the apartment was told by his boss to keep me there and not let me out. But this person asked for N10 million, so I called Elele again. Elele sent me N2 million because there was no one else to turn to.”
In a statement by his media aide Alao Babatunde, the Minister of Interior said he does not approve of the alleged misconduct and will not tolerate such under his watch.
The statement reads: “The Minister of Interior has ordered a full and unconditional investigation into bribery and corruption in the Nigerian Correctional Service.
“Tunji-Ojo condemns the alleged misconduct and says any form of indiscipline, corruption or unprofessionalism will not be tolerated in the paramilitary services under his ministry. Such will be met with serious sanctions.”
“Integrity, transparency and accountability will be maintained. We will ensure a full investigation and get rid of corrupt practices and those found guilty will face the law.”
Alao also said the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani has been directed to head the investigation.
He said “The minister has set up a special investigation team led by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani to look into this.”
It will be thorough, open and fair. Those found guilty will be sanctioned.”
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