The Nigerian Correctional Service has confirmed the suspension of senior officers allegedly involved in the Bobrisky bribery scandal.
Last week, the Civil Defence, Correctional Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) announced the suspension of four officers connected to various corruption cases, including Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Michael Anugwa.
During a House of Representatives investigation panel on September 30, Anugwa, who oversees the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kiri-kiri, Lagos—where the well-known crossdresser Idris Okuneye, aka Bobrisky, served his sentence—stated that he had not received a suspension letter as directed by the CDCFIB.
In response, a statement signed by Assistant Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer Umar Abubakar, released Monday night, labeled Anugwa’s denial as gross misconduct intended to mislead the public.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian Correctional Service suspended not only the said officer in the video, but three other officers following their alleged roles in various misconducts so as to allow for further investigation.
The suspended officers include:
DCC Sikiru Adekunle, Officer-in-Charge of the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Lagos;
DCC Michael Anugwa, Officer-in-Charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Lagos;
DCC Kevin Ikechukwu Iloafonsi, Officer-in-Charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, FCT;
Assistant Superintendent of Corrections (ASC II) Ogbule Samuel Obinna, Medium Security Custodial Centre, Abakiliki, Ebonyi State,” the statement explained.
The CDCFIB issued two suspension letters (reference nos: CDCFIB/NCOS/DISP/016/VOL.II/16 and CDCFIB/NCOS/DISP/016/VOL.II/17) both dated September 26, 2024. The suspension took effect on that date and was communicated to the affected officers.
The statement urged the public to remain steadfast, assuring that a thorough investigation will be conducted.
“Any person or group of persons found culpable would be punished in line with the Public Service Rules as well as other extant laws,” it added.
