Minister Tunji-Ojo Vows No Shield for Officers in Bobrisky Bribery Scandal

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged full accountability in the ongoing bribery investigation involving Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, vowing that no officer, regardless of rank, will be protected if found guilty.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja yesterday to mark his first year in office, the minister urged Nigerians to remain patient as the investigation continues. He expressed confidence in the panel, headed by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, comprising legal experts, civil servants, and members of civil society, to deliver an impartial and thorough probe.

“The investigation will be transparent, and we will uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption within all paramilitary agencies under my supervision,” Tunji-Ojo assured. “No one, no matter how powerful, will be spared. We are committed to uncovering the truth without cover-ups or favoritism,” he added.

The minister also highlighted the suspension of officers linked to the Bobrisky case as evidence of the ministry’s stance on indiscipline and corruption. “This commitment goes beyond this single incident. It applies across all institutions under my watch,” he stated.

In reviewing his achievements over the past year, Tunji-Ojo noted several milestones, including the timely promotion of over 53,000 paramilitary officers between December 2023 and the present, a process that had been delayed for nearly four decades. He also pointed to reforms in recruitment, with a 35 percent quota for women, and welfare improvements, including group life insurance and enhanced pension benefits for officers.

The minister praised the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its success in combating economic crimes. Over the last year, the NSCDC arrested 2,254 vandals and oil bunkerers, with 550 facing prosecution and 122 already convicted. Additionally, the agency dismantled 150 illegal refineries and destroyed 64 oil dumps, disrupting organized crime networks.

Tunji-Ojo also celebrated reforms in the private security sector, noting that 115 licensed companies are now operational, with another 178 in the process of obtaining licenses. The sector has trained 3,394 private security guards and generated over ₦861 million in revenue.

As part of the ministry’s contribution to economic diversification, the minister announced the launch of the Mine Marshal initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Steel. This program aims to combat illegal mining and boost national revenue.

In education, Tunji-Ojo highlighted the ministry’s focus on the National Safe Schools initiative, aimed at ensuring a secure learning environment for children.

The minister also shared progress in the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), including the renovation of key facilities and enhanced security infrastructure. Specific projects include the construction of a 96-inmate capacity cell block at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison and the renovation of administrative and kitchen blocks at various facilities.

Tunji-Ojo further outlined reforms in the Nigeria Immigration Service, addressing long-standing challenges in passport issuance. Major accomplishments include clearing a backlog of over 200,000 passport applications, introducing home delivery services, and installing e-gates at airports to streamline immigration processes.

In the Federal Fire Service, the minister noted significant advancements, including the remodeling of the National Fire Academy in Abuja and efforts to pass a new Fire Act to modernize fire safety protocols.

The minister concluded by emphasizing that these initiatives reflect the Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure, service delivery, and the welfare of citizens across Nigeria.