The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed allegations that an inmate at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre was robbed of cash and valuables worth over ₦120 million during a recent security search operation, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji, the NCoS said the reports were inconsistent with established custodial procedures and did not reflect the realities of the operation conducted at the facility.
According to the Service, the exercise was a routine security search carried out in line with standard operational guidelines designed to maintain order, discipline, and security within the custodial centre. It stated that all prohibited items recovered during the operation were properly documented and processed in accordance with regulations.
The NCoS explained that inmates are not permitted to keep unauthorized items or large sums of money while in custody. It noted that personal belongings declared upon admission are officially recorded and securely stored until the inmate is discharged or lawfully released.
The Service further disclosed that records available at the Kuje custodial facility showed no evidence that the valuables referenced in the reports were declared by the inmate upon admission. It also stated that no such items were recovered during the search operation.
According to the agency, any possession of the alleged cash and valuables within the custodial facility would constitute prohibited contraband and amount to a violation of correctional regulations.
The NCoS also revealed that no formal or informal complaint regarding the alleged theft or loss had been received through its official complaint channels from any inmate or concerned individual.
Reassuring members of the public, the Service stated that the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre remains peaceful, secure, and fully operational.
It urged media organisations and the public to exercise caution in disseminating unverified information capable of misleading the public and eroding confidence in public institutions. The agency further encouraged journalists to seek clarification through official channels to ensure accuracy, fairness, and responsible reporting.
The clarification follows widespread social media reports alleging that an inmate at the Kuje custodial facility was deprived of cash and other valuables during a search conducted by correctional officials, claims that sparked public debate and renewed attention on conditions within correctional centres.
Located in the Federal Capital Territory, the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre is one of Nigeria’s most prominent correctional facilities and has housed several high-profile inmates over the years. The facility has remained under heightened public scrutiny since the July 2022 terrorist attack that resulted in the escape of hundreds of inmates and prompted the Federal Government to strengthen security measures across custodial centres nationwide.
Since the incident, the Nigerian Correctional Service has intensified routine searches, surveillance, and monitoring operations as part of broader efforts to prevent the possession of prohibited items, curb criminal activities within custodial facilities, and enhance overall security.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding inmate welfare, and advancing ongoing reforms aimed at promoting professionalism, transparency, and accountability across correctional centres nationwide.
