FG vows to implement report of investigative panel on alleged corruption in correctional service
The Federal Government on Wednesday assured Nigerians that the reports of the Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruption and other violations against the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, would be implemented. The
- By Blessing Olaifa, Abuja
The Federal Government on Wednesday assured Nigerians that the reports of the Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruption and other violations against the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, would be implemented.
The assurance was given by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Chairperson of the Special Panel, Dr Magdalene Ajani, at the conclusion of the two-day stakeholders engagement on the report at Transcorp Hotel, Abuja.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to reform the NCoS and strengthen the country’s criminal justice system, while promising to update Nigerians on the contributions made by the critical stakeholders to the report.
A statement signed by the Head of Press and Media Relations in the Ministry, Mrs Mary Ali, quoted the Permanent Secretary as saying that "the process has now moved from review to implementation of key recommendations aimed at improving accountability, institutional integrity, and respect for human dignity within correctional centres."
The Permanent Secretary said the report would be updated to reflect contributions made during the engagement and subsequently submitted to the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The final report, she added, will be made public in line with the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusive reform.
“The report is not an end in itself, but a call to action. What matters most is the seriousness with which we implement its recommendations to strengthen the system and rebuild public confidence,” Dr Ajani said.
She noted that the Panel carried out its assignment with fairness and objectivity, focusing not only on identifying issues but also on proposing practical solutions. She emphasized that reform efforts should be seen as part of a broader responsibility to strengthen institutions, not weaken them.
Addressing participants at the closing ceremony, Dr Ajani called on State Governments to play a more active role in supporting correctional centres within their jurisdictions.
According to her, simple but consistent interventions—such as providing basic healthcare, improving water supply and sanitation, and supporting inmate education—can make a significant difference in the lives of inmates and the overall system.
She further reminded stakeholders that many inmates are state offenders, underscoring the need for stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities. She encouraged states to take practical steps toward implementing the provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, including developing state-level frameworks and making budgetary provisions to support correctional services.
Dr. Ajani expressed confidence that, with sustained commitment and collaboration, the outcomes of the engagement would translate into meaningful improvements in the correctional system and contribute to a more accountable and humane justice framework.
In his closing remarks, the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, stated that institutions entrusted with public responsibility must remain open to scrutiny, guided by accountability, and committed to continuous improvement.
He emphasised that the Nigerian Correctional Service does not condone any form of misconduct or violation of the rights of persons in custody, assuring that all substantiated cases of wrongdoing will be addressed in accordance with established laws and disciplinary procedures.
The Comptroller-General further noted that implementation of the Panel’s recommendations will be undertaken with seriousness and a clear sense of responsibility, while sensitive matters already before the courts will be handled appropriately.
