The bribery allegations against Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) underscores long-standing concerns about corruption and preferential treatment in Nigeria’s prison system.
Development Diaries reports that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed the investigation of a voice note shared by Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, in which Bobrisky, claimed that his godfather, working with the Controller General of the NCS, had set up for him to serve his six-month sentence in a private flat following his sentencing for abusing naira notes in April.
According to reports, Bobrisky in the same voice note allegedly claimed that he paid a N15 million bribe to officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to drop money laundering charges against him.
These allegations reflect a broader issue within Nigeria’s correctional system, where corruption, bribery, and abuse of power have marred the effectiveness of the institution.
Also, if true, these allegations undermine public trust in the EFCC’s ability to fairly and impartially uphold the law.
The possibility that ‘influential’ or ‘high-profile’ individuals can buy their way out of correctional centres, thereby evading justice, illustrates a deep structural problem.
In addition to undermining the system’s credibility, such practices perpetuate a two-tier justice system where the wealthy and influential are held to different standards than ordinary citizens.
The NCS has historically been criticised for poor oversight, dilapidated infrastructure, and the mistreatment of inmates, yet these issues persist in the absence of real reform.
This incident reveals how corruption at the highest levels increases the suffering of regular inmates while offering special privileges to the wealthy. It sadly also suggests a deep-rooted culture of impunity among top officials.
Recall that in June 2024, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) released a report on the correctional facility in Ikoyi, Lagos State, exposing the dire conditions, exploitative practices and corruption at the facility.
Minister Tunji-Ojo’s call for an investigation presents a crucial opportunity for institutional reform within the NCS. However, it remains to be seen whether this investigation will produce tangible results or if it will fade into the background without leading to meaningful change.
Only time will tell whether this moment can spark reform in Nigeria’s deeply flawed prison system.
Development Diaries calls on the Minister of Interior and the EFCC to ensure a thorough, unbiased and transparent investigation into the allegations and officials responsible are prosecuted.
Photo source: EFCC
