We will reduce overcrowding in correctional centres — Tunji-Ojo
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged to tackle overcrowding in Nigerian correctional centres as part of a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at transforming the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
Speaking at the second public hearing of an Independent Investigative Panel on alleged corruption and legal violations within the NCoS on Wednesday in Abuja, Tunji-Ojo stressed the need for a holistic approach to addressing the challenges facing the correctional system.
As part of the reforms, he announced plans to enhance the welfare of correctional officers, which would include improved training, better equipment, and enhanced living conditions.
The minister also highlighted the high number of awaiting trial inmates as a major cause of congestion in correctional facilities. He outlined plans to transfer federal offenders to less populated facilities to alleviate overcrowding.
“There are some correctional centres that are severely overcrowded, while others operate at only 30 to 40 per cent of their capacity,” he noted.
“It is shocking that some facilities are at 200 per cent capacity. We must analyse each correctional centre critically and relocate inmates strategically.”
Tunji-Ojo emphasised that addressing the issue of awaiting trial detainees was key to decongesting prisons.
“With 65 percent of inmates awaiting trial, it is clear that the solution to overcrowding lies in resolving trial delays and expanding non-custodial sentencing options,” he stated.
“We must redefine our correctional approach. The time has come to say enough is enough.”
The minister further revealed that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had approved the establishment of a National Paramilitary Academy to provide specialised training for correctional officers.
He assured that the government would provide full support to ensure the success of the proposed reforms.
In her remarks, Dr Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Chairperson of the Investigative Panel, commended the minister for his commitment to justice, transparency, and correctional reform.
Ajani stressed that the panel’s role was to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into allegations of corruption and misconduct within the NCoS.
She revealed that the first public hearing had already exposed serious issues, including poor treatment of inmates, mismanagement of prison facilities, and breaches of legal and ethical standards.
Ajani emphasised that the findings of the investigative panel would lay the groundwork for long-term, sustainable reforms that would ensure professionalism, integrity, and respect for human dignity within the correctional system.
She urged all stakeholders to approach the inquiry with transparency, courage, and a shared commitment to truth and justice.
Ajani expressed gratitude to the National Human Rights Coalition, UNICEF, International IDEA, civil society organisations, and prison reform advocates for their support in the ongoing investigations.
She described their involvement as a critical step towards strengthening the rule of law and protecting human rights in correctional facilities.
In his contribution, Sylvester Nwakuche, the Acting Comptroller General of the NCoS, assured the investigative panel of the service’s full cooperation and transparency.
He affirmed that the NCoS had nothing to hide and would provide all necessary documents and information to facilitate the investigation.
Nwakuche encouraged staff members and stakeholders to share their insights and experiences with the panel, emphasising that their contributions would be invaluable in shaping the future of the correctional system.