The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding popular Nigerian cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, following allegations of preferential treatment during his time in detention. The incident, which involves claims of corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has sparked widespread discussion about systemic issues within the country’s institutions.
The controversy began when social critic Very Dark Man released an audio recording that purportedly featured Bobrisky admitting to paying officials of the NCoS for special privileges during his jail time. The tape, which quickly went viral, caused a public uproar, with many questioning the integrity of the correctional system and the extent of corruption within it.
In response to the allegations, Minister Tunji-Ojo addressed the issue during an appearance on Channels TV on Tuesday, November 12. He acknowledged that the incident reflects deeper institutional problems and emphasized that the government is committed to taking appropriate action. “This is a reflection of institutional issues,” he said, speaking about the systemic nature of the problem.
The Minister reassured the public that disciplinary action would be taken against anyone found guilty of wrongdoing. He highlighted that the case is being investigated by established procedures. “There are disciplinary procedures. You have to go through the board. You don’t just take action. Of course, somebody as high as an ACG [Assistant Comptroller General] who was found culpable of giving those verbal instructions in this regard has been suspended. This is because we said we are not going to shield anybody,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
In his comments, the Minister confirmed that a report on the incident had been submitted to the relevant board, and a copy had been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service to kickstart disciplinary proceedings. “The report is with the board; we have sent a copy to the service themselves because disciplinary actions must start,” he added, signalling the government’s intent to hold officials accountable for any misconduct.
The saga surrounding Bobrisky has brought attention to broader concerns about corruption and the lack of transparency within Nigeria’s correctional system. As the investigation unfolds, there are growing calls for stronger reforms and better accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Tunji-Ojo’s firm stance on ensuring accountability and transparency has been welcomed by many who see this as an opportunity to address longstanding institutional challenges. The case is expected to set a precedent for how corruption within the nation’s institutions, particularly the prison system, is handled in the future.