- ‘No valuables declared, no complaint lodged by any inmate’
The Nigerian Correctional Service has dismissed reports alleging that an inmate at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, was robbed of personal valuables worth over ₦120 million during a routine search.
In a statement issued by Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections JN Osuji, the Service described the online reports as false, misleading, and inconsistent with custodial procedures.
The Service explained that what occurred at the Kuje centre was a routine security search carried out to maintain order and discipline. All prohibited items recovered were duly processed and documented according to Standard Operating Procedures.
“Nigerian Correctional Service regulations prohibit inmates from keeping unauthorized personal items and large sums of money while in custody,” the statement said.
“Upon admission, all personal belongings and valuables declared by inmates are properly documented and kept in safe custody until discharge.”
According to the Service, available records show the items mentioned in the reports were not declared by any inmate on admission, nor were they found or recorded during the search.
It added that such items are classified as prohibited contraband and inmates are not permitted to retain them.
The Service also said no formal or informal complaint of theft or loss had been lodged by any inmate or person at the centre through its official complaint channels as of the time of the statement.
“The Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje is calm, peaceful and secured,” Osuji stated.
The Correctional Service urged the public and media organisations to avoid circulating sensational and unverified claims that could mislead the public and undermine confidence in public institutions. It encouraged journalists to seek clarification through official channels for fairness and accuracy.
The Service reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring inmate safety and welfare, and sustaining reforms introduced by the Controller General of Corrections to strengthen professionalism, transparency, and accountability across custodial centres nationwide.
