The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed as false and misleading online reports alleging that an inmate at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja, was robbed of personal valuables reportedly worth over ₦120 million during a routine search operation.
In a statement issued by the Service public relations officer, chief superintendent of Corrections, Jane Osuji, the NCoS described the allegation as inconsistent with established procedures governing custodial operations across the country.
The Service explained that what occurred at the facility was a routine security search conducted in line with Standard Operating Procedures aimed at maintaining order, discipline, and safety within the custodial centre.
According to the statement, all recovered prohibited items during the exercise were duly processed and documented, with no irregularities recorded. It stressed that inmates are not permitted to retain unauthorized valuables or large sums of money while in custody.
Read Also: Ex-Skye Bank Chairman Tunde Ayeni ‘robbed’ of N120m watch, wedding ring in Kuje prison raid
Read Also: Inside The Gates of Impunity: Why a remand inmate’s stolen watch matters to every Nigerian
The NCoS further stated that upon admission into any custodial facility, all declared personal belongings of inmates are properly documented and kept in safe custody until lawful release. It noted that there is no official record indicating that items matching the alleged ₦120 million valuation were declared or kept in custody at Kuje Custodial Centre.
It added that the items referenced in the reports are classified as prohibited contraband within custodial facilities, and therefore cannot be lawfully retained by inmates.
The Service also disclosed that no complaint, formal or informal, regarding theft or missing valuables has been lodged by any inmate or individual connected to the centre through official channels.
Reaffirming the state of security within the facility, the NCoS said the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, remains calm, peaceful, and secure.
The service urged members of the public and media organisations to disregard sensational and unverified claims, and to always seek clarification through appropriate official channels before publication.
It reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening security and accountability across custodial centres nationwide.
“The Service wishes to categorically state that the allegation is false, misleading, and inconsistent with the operational realities and established procedures governing custodial facilities in the country.
“For the avoidance of doubt, what took place at the Custodial Centre in Kuje, was a routine security search carried out within the facility and all recovered prohibited items were dully processed and documented. The exercise was conducted professionally and in line with extant Standard Operating Procedures aimed at maintaining security, order, discipline, and the integrity of custodial operations,” the statement concluded.
