Over 100 inmates reportedly exploited; independent investigation demanded.
A legal practitioner, Mr Bala Dakum, has petitioned the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to investigate officers at Kuje Correctional Centre for alleged extortion, abuse of office, and gross misconduct.
In his petition dated Feb. 11, Dakum, representing over 100 inmates, urged that the Controller and aides be sanctioned or redeployed pending an independent probe. He claims inmates were allegedly forced to pay for basic rights, including medical care, movement, and humane treatment—actions he says violate the Nigerian Correctional Service Act and constitutional rights.
Dakum warned that continued inaction could escalate tensions, jeopardizing the safety of inmates and staff, and stressed that forensic audits of the officers’ accounts are necessary.
The petition was also copied to the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Minister of Justice, and the Ministry of Interior.
When contacted, NCoS PRO Ms Jane Osuji said the allegations would be taken seriously, though she had yet to confirm receipt of the petition.
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