Nigerian Correctional Service Denies Alleged ₦120m Inmate Robbery at Kuje Custodial Centre
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Correctional Service has dismissed reports alleging that inmates at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje were robbed of valuables worth over ₦120 million during a routine search operation within the facility.
In a rebuttal issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections JN Osuji, the Service described the allegations circulating online as “false, misleading, and inconsistent with operational realities and established procedures governing custodial facilities in the country.”
According to the statement, what transpired at the Kuje custodial centre was a routine security search conducted in line with standard operational procedures aimed at maintaining security, order, discipline, and the integrity of custodial operations.
The Service explained that all prohibited items recovered during the exercise were properly processed and documented, stressing that inmates are prohibited from keeping unauthorized personal belongings or large sums of money while in custody.
The statement further clarified that upon admission into any custodial facility, inmates’ personal belongings and valuables are officially documented and secured until discharge or lawful release.
“Available records from the custodial centre do not indicate that the items mentioned in the reports were declared by the inmate(s) upon admission, neither were such items found or recorded during the search operation,” the statement noted.
The Correctional Service also emphasized that the alleged valuables mentioned in the reports qualify as prohibited contraband within custodial centres and are not permitted in inmates’ possession.
The Service disclosed that no formal or informal complaint regarding theft or loss had been lodged by any inmate or individual connected to the facility through official complaint channels.
It reassured the public that the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje remains calm, peaceful, and secure.
The Nigerian Correctional Service urged media organisations and the public to avoid spreading unverified and sensational reports capable of undermining confidence in public institutions, while encouraging journalists to seek clarification through official channels in the interest of responsible journalism.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, accountability, and ongoing reforms across custodial centres nationwide under the leadership of the Controller General of Corrections.
