The Conference of Civil Society for Transparency and Accountability (COCTA) has commended Minister for Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for his bold reforms aimed at improving governance and accountability within the ministry.
The group said Tunji-Ojo’s leadership has been marked by transformative initiatives that address long-standing inefficiencies and systemic corruption, earning him both praise and resistance from vested interests.
A statement by the Director of Communication and Advocacy for COCTA, Amb. Haruna Abdulsalam noted under leadership of the Minster, Ministry of Interior has undergone significant changes, including clearing of over 200,000 passport application backlogs within three weeks.
He said: “The Minister has introduced a streamlined system to ensure nationwide uniformity in passport fees, eliminating discrepancies that previously favored certain regions. Dr. Tunji-Ojo has also spearheaded the automation of border security to tackle illegal immigration and smuggling while adhering to ECOWAS protocols on free movement.
“His efforts to rehabilitate correctional facilities, such as those in Kuje and Suleja, have addressed overcrowding and improved the treatment of inmates, reflecting a commitment to a humane justice system.
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“In addition, the Minister has prioritized the welfare of paramilitary personnel, ensuring better salaries and improved working conditions for those responsible for maintaining national security. These initiatives have restored public trust and demonstrated a proactive approach to governance. However, these strides have not come without challenges.
“Critics, many of whom benefited from the corruption entrenched in the old system, have launched attacks aimed at discrediting Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s efforts. Allegations of misconduct, including identity card racketeering and lapses in border control, have surfaced, but COCTA and other supporters have dismissed these claims as politically motivated. This detractors are threatened by the Minister’s success in dismantling the structures that previously facilitated corrupt practices.
“Despite the resistance, Dr. Tunji-Ojo has garnered widespread public support. His swift reforms in passport processing and correctional services have earned him recognition, including the Public Service Person of the Year 2023 award by Leadership Newspaper.
“Social media platforms have been flooded with praise for the Minister, with many Nigerians describing him as a symbol of hope for effective governance.
COCTA emphasised that Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s reforms are crucial for fostering transparency and accountability in the ministry, calling on civil society organizations to support his vision, stressing that no amount of criticism or distraction should derail the progress being made.
“As the Minister continues to implement reforms, his proactive stance on improving service delivery and enhancing Nigeria’s global standing signals a brighter future for the country.”
He assured that the ongoing reforms under Tunji-Ojo’s leadership are not merely policy adjustments but a fundamental shift towards greater transparency and good governance in Nigeria.