The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered an immediate, unconditional, and thorough investigation into the serious allegations of bribery and corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). These allegations have raised concerns about the integrity of the institution and prompted the minister to act swiftly in addressing the matter, ensuring that justice is served and that the reputation of the NCoS is upheld.
This directive is contained in a statement released by the Special Adviser to the minister, Mr. Babatunde Alao, on Wednesday in Abuja. The statement emphasized the seriousness with which the minister views these allegations, stressing that the ministry is committed to enforcing strict disciplinary measures to uphold the values of integrity and professionalism within the Nigerian Correctional Service and other paramilitary services under its supervision.
Alao further stated that Tunji-Ojo unequivocally condemned the alleged reprehensible behaviour within the Nigerian Correctional Service, reiterating that any form of indiscipline, unprofessionalism, and corruption will be met with zero tolerance. The minister made it clear that such conduct will be addressed with the full force of the law, as the ministry will not compromise on its core values of integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Tunji-Ojo highlighted that the ministry is fully committed to rooting out any trace of corruption and ensuring that those found guilty of engaging in corrupt practices face severe consequences. "We will leave no stone unturned in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those found culpable face the full wrath of the law," the minister declared, signaling a no-nonsense approach to tackling this issue.
In response to the allegations, the minister has constituted a special investigative team tasked with probing the matter thoroughly. The team will be led by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani, who has been charged with overseeing the investigation and compiling a comprehensive report on the findings. This team is expected to conduct a full and unbiased inquiry into the allegations, leaving no aspect of the issue unexamined.
Furthermore, Dr Tunji-Ojo has reassured Nigerians that the investigation will be carried out with the highest level of rigor, transparency, and impartiality. He emphasized that there would be no favoritism or leniency in handling the matter and that any personnel found guilty of corrupt practices would face appropriate disciplinary actions. The minister’s commitment to integrity and justice within the paramilitary services is clear, and he aims to restore public confidence in the system.
The minister's swift action underscores the seriousness with which the ministry is tackling the allegations and sends a strong message to all personnel within the Nigerian Correctional Service that corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated. The investigation is expected to result in tangible outcomes that will contribute to strengthening the integrity of the NCoS and safeguarding its reputation.