The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed reports alleging that inmates at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, were robbed of valuables worth over ₦120 million during a routine search operation, describing the claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections, JN Osuji, the Service clarified that what transpired at the Kuje custodial facility was a routine security search conducted in line with established operational procedures.
According to the statement, all prohibited items recovered during the exercise were properly processed and documented in accordance with extant Standard Operating Procedures aimed at maintaining security, discipline, and order within custodial centres.
The NCoS stressed that inmates are prohibited from keeping unauthorized personal belongings or large sums of money while in custody, noting that all valuables declared upon admission are officially documented and safely kept until the inmate’s discharge or lawful release.
The Service further stated that available records from the Kuje Custodial Centre did not show that the alleged valuables were declared by any inmate upon admission, nor were such items recovered or recorded during the search exercise.
“Consequently, there is no official record supporting the allegation that the said prohibited valuables were in the custody of the inmate(s) within the facility,” the statement noted.
The NCoS also emphasized that the items allegedly mentioned in the reports qualify as prohibited contraband within custodial facilities, adding that possession of such items by inmates would amount to a breach of custodial regulations.
It further revealed that no formal or informal complaint relating to theft or loss of the alleged valuables had been lodged by any inmate or individual through the Service’s official complaint channels.
The Service assured the public that the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, remains calm, peaceful, and secure.
While urging media organisations and members of the public to avoid spreading unverified and sensational claims, the NCoS encouraged journalists to seek clarification through official channels to ensure fairness, accuracy, and responsible reportage.
The Nigerian Correctional Service reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding inmate welfare, and sustaining reforms introduced by the Controller General of Corrections to strengthen professionalism, transparency, and accountability across custodial centres nationwide.
