Nigerian Correctional Service to investigate criminal activities in Ikoyi prison

Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) says it will commence immediate investigation into allegations of criminal activities at the Ikoyi Custodial Centre that was uncovered by an online newspaper.

A statement signed by O.F. Enobore, Controller of Corrections, Public Relations Officer says its Controller General has set up a panel to immediately look at the claims unearthed by journalist, Fisayo Soyombo.

“The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service has been drawn to a publication by The Cable Online Medium containing allegations of drug abuse, sodomy, bribery, pimping and cash and carry operations in Ikoyi Custodial Centre, Lagos,” a statement on Tuesday said.

“In view of the gravity of the allegations, the Controller General, Ja’afaru Ahmed has set up a high powered panel to immediately commence full investigations into the matter in order to establish the authenticity of the report, identify and bring the culprits to book if found guilty of the allegations.

The CG who gave the directive in his office in Abuja today stated that the Service is willing to work with the general public as well as relevant stakeholders in the criminal justice sector to actualize the policy objectives of transforming the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) into a modern reformatory institution that operates in line with best international practices.

He noted that investigative journalists are partners, who seek the development of the nation, and called for more of such findings aimed at reforming the institution for better service delivery.

Ja’afaru stated further that the Service has no intention of arresting or harassing the journalist over his alleged findings. He therefore called for more constructive engagement with the media and the general public with a view to strengthening the implementation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.