The Federal Government of Nigeria has suspended senior officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) over alleged bribery involving Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.
These allegations were first raised by blogger Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, who claimed in viral videos that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officers received ₦15 million from Bobrisky to drop money laundering charges against him during his naira-spraying incident in April. The blogger further alleged that Bobrisky paid a large sum to secure a special section in prison.
In response to the claims, the EFCC and NCoS initiated investigations. Following the viral video, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board announced the suspension of the implicated officers to ensure a thorough investigation. The Board stated, “The suspension of these officers is to allow for a comprehensive investigation into the various allegations, and the outcome will be made public upon conclusion.”
Among those suspended are Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kirikiri, and Sikiru Adekunle, Deputy Controller at the Maximum-Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Lagos.
Another officer, ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, serving at the MSCC, Afikpo, Ebonyi State, was also suspended for allegedly “accompanying a convicted inmate out of the custodial centre to a location outside the facility.” Additionally, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, Deputy Controller of Corrections at MSCC, Kuje, Abuja, was suspended for allegedly “receiving monies on behalf of an inmate.”
The Board assured the public that “no effort will be spared in ensuring that all allegations of misconduct are thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions are taken.” the statement ended.
