Ahead of a planned protest against “bad governance” on August 1, 2024, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has issued a warning, designating all custodial facilities (prisons) across the country as “red zones” and advising that no protesters should approach their perimeters.
In a statement released on Tuesday, NCoS Public Relations Officer Abubakar Umar emphasized the critical nature of these facilities, stating, “In view of the purported national protest, the Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to inform the public that custodial centres have been designated as red zones; therefore, any person or group of persons with no legitimate business should steer clear.”
Umar further stressed that custodial and non-custodial centres are essential national assets vital to public safety and national security. “Tampering with or attacking these facilities could lead to a breakdown of law and order, exacerbating societal insecurity,” he warned.
The NCoS has assured the public that robust security measures have been implemented to protect correctional facilities. The Ministry of Interior Joint Taskforce (MOIJTF) has been activated to provide additional security nationwide.
Controller General of Corrections Haliru Nababa expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation in maintaining peace around correctional centres. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the NCoS via email at info@corrections.gov.ng, the official website www.corrections.gov.ng, or by calling 09060004598 or 08075050006.
