The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged to impose strict sanctions on any official found culpable in the alleged preferential treatment given to convicted cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky.
Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months in prison, was allegedly housed in an apartment outside the correctional facility.
According to Vanguard, Dr. Tunji-Ojo said that senior officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service involved in the matter have already been suspended to allow for an unimpeded investigation.
“We will not spare anybody, no matter how highly placed. Let’s be patient. The investigation is ongoing, but rest assured, no one will be shielded or protected,” the minister emphasized.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in the investigative committee led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
He noted that the panel was carefully constituted and includes members from civil society organizations to ensure fairness and transparency.
On broader security matters, the minister highlighted the achievements of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in the fight against vandalism and illegal oil activities.
Over the past year, the NSCDC arrested 2,254 vandals and oil thieves, with 550 currently undergoing prosecution and 122 convictions already secured.
“In addition, the NSCDC disrupted organized crime networks by destroying 150 illegal refineries and 64 illegal oil dumps,” Tunji-Ojo said.
He further praised the reform of the private security sector, revealing that 115 licensed companies are currently operating legally, with another 178 awaiting approval.
Additionally, 3,394 private security guards have completed rigorous training, while the sector has generated a substantial revenue of ₦861,620,500.
“In alignment with our economic diversification goals, we launched the Mine Marshal initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Steel to combat illegal mining and boost national revenue. This demonstrates our commitment to reducing reliance on the oil industry,” he added.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also noted significant advancements in the capacity building of security personnel, with 21,383 senior officers and 2,551 junior officers promoted over the past year.
Furthermore, 818 junior officers were elevated to the senior officer cadre, ensuring a well-motivated workforce. He reiterated the ministry’s focus on the National Plan on Safe School initiative to guarantee a secure learning environment for children.
“Our personnel have undergone extensive training to stay prepared for evolving security challenges. We are also prioritizing the Safe School initiative, ensuring our children can learn without fear,” the minister concluded.
