Abuja: An Independent Investigative Panel on alleged corruption and other violations against the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has presented its report before critical stakeholders. The panel, set up by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, began the presentation of its findings on Tuesday, at the opening of a two-day stakeholders’ engagement in the city.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tunji-Ojo expressed gratitude to members of the panel for their dedication, professionalism, and diligence in conducting the sensitive assignment of investigating allegations of corruption, abuse of power, torture, cruelty, inhumane, and degrading treatment within NCoS facilities. He explained that the panel was constituted in response to serious allegations of misconduct and violations within correctional institutions, following the arrest of Idris Olarenwaju, popularly known as ‘Bobrisky’.
The findings of the panel highlighted systemic challenges that required urgent attention. These include issues relating to corruption, operational inefficiencies, poor welfare conditions, human rights concerns, and institutional gaps that must be addressed through comprehensive reforms. Officers found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary and legal consequences in line with existing laws and regulations.
Tunji-Ojo added that the stakeholders’ meeting was not a ceremonial presentation of a report but an opportunity for collective reflection and constructive dialogue among critical stakeholders. He emphasized that effective collaboration among stakeholders remained essential for sustainable reform of Nigeria’s correctional system. Their insights, recommendations, and support will help guide the implementation of the panel’s findings and ensure that the necessary reforms are both practical and impactful.
The minister further stated that the reformation of correctional centers was not solely about sanctions but about strengthening institutions, operational standards, enhancing training, and welfare for correctional officers. It was important to ensure that correctional facilities aligned with international best practices with the aim of promoting justice and restoring hope while supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society as responsible citizens.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, abuse of power, and any form of human rights violations within the NCoS. In his remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, commended Tunji-Ojo for facilitating the process. Fagbemi noted that the engagement was timely and significant as NCoS occupied a vital space in the administration of criminal justice.
The AGF stated that the institution is the heartbeat of rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration, and any shadow of corruption or abuse of power within its walls strikes at the very core of the social contract. Public institutions must continually earn the trust of the citizens. The presentation of this report is not merely an administrative milestone but a bold step toward reinforcing the integrity of the justice sector.
Fagbemi further mentioned that the repeal of the Nigerian Prisons Act and the subsequent re-enactment of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019 must direct legislative response to the systemic challenges. This legislative framework empowers the system to move beyond the findings of this report toward a correctional system that is transparent, accountable, and fully aligned with international human rights standards.
He assured Tunji-Ojo of his continued support for constructive efforts aimed at deepening public confidence and promoting a justice system reflecting the principles of fairness, accountability, and human rights. Also speaking, the NCoS Controller-General (CG), Sylvester Nwakuche, stated that the panel’s establishment was for accountability, not condemnation.
Nwakuche emphasized that the panel’s findings, even if difficult to confront, must be confronted. The service must be measured by its response to failures, not defined by them. He acknowledged that the majority of officers serve with professionalism, dedication, and quiet sacrifice often in conditions far from ideal. However, he appealed that the misdeeds of some personnel must not overshadow the honor of the many who diligently serve the nation.