Nigerian Correctional Service Denies Alleged Robbery of Kuje Inmate

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly refuted claims that an inmate at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje was robbed of valuables exceeding N120 million during a recent search. The agency described the allegations as false and misleading, asserting they contradict established custodial procedures.

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The allegation is false, misleading, and inconsistent with established custodial procedures.

In a statement released by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji, the NCoS clarified that the operation was a standard security search conducted to uphold order and discipline within the facility. Any prohibited items discovered were properly documented. The service reiterated that inmates are forbidden from keeping unauthorized items or substantial amounts of cash while in custody. Personal belongings are documented upon admission and secured until release.

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Inmates are prohibited from keeping unauthorised items or large sums of money while in custody.

The NCoS further stated that records at the Kuje facility do not indicate that the inmate in question declared the alleged valuables upon admission, nor were such items found during the search. Possessing such items would constitute a violation of correctional regulations, classifying them as contraband. The agency also confirmed that no formal complaint regarding theft or loss of these alleged items has been received through official channels.

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Available records at the Kuje custodial centre showed no indication that the items mentioned in the reports were declared by the inmate upon admission, nor were such items recovered during the search operation.

Reassuring the public, the NCoS affirmed that the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre remains secure and peaceful. The agency urged media and the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could erode public trust in institutions. It encouraged journalists to utilize official channels for clarification to ensure accurate and responsible reporting. The rebuttal comes amid social media reports that sparked public debate and scrutiny of correctional facility conditions, particularly following the July 2022 terrorist attack at Kuje that led to numerous escapes.

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Avoid circulating unverified claims capable of misleading the public and undermining confidence in public institutions.