The Nigerian Correctional Service has denied allegations circulating in online media that officials stole valuables belonging to inmates during a routine search operation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja.
The service described the reports as false, misleading, and inconsistent with established custodial procedures, insisting that the operation was carried out professionally and in line with standard operating procedures.
In a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji, the NCoS said the exercise was a routine security search aimed at maintaining order, discipline, and security within the facility, adding that all recovered prohibited items were duly processed and documented.
The service said allegations that inmates were robbed of valuables reportedly worth over ₦120 million were not supported by official records.
“The service wishes to categorically state that the allegation is false, misleading, and inconsistent with the operational realities and established procedures governing custodial facilities in the country,” the statement read.
According to the NCoS, inmates are not permitted to keep unauthorised items or large sums of money in custody, noting that all personal belongings declared at the point of admission are documented and kept safely until lawful release.
It further stated that records from the custodial centre did not show that any of the items mentioned in the reports were declared by inmates, nor were such items found or recorded during the search operation.
“For the avoidance of doubt, what took place at the custodial centre in Kuje was a routine security search carried out within the facility, and all recovered prohibited items were duly processed and documented.
“The exercise was conducted professionally and in line with extant standard operating procedures aimed at maintaining security, order, discipline and the integrity of custodial operations.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service operates under clearly defined regulations which prohibit inmates from keeping unauthorised personal items and large sums of money while in custody,” the statement said.
The service also said no complaint of theft or loss had been filed through any official channel by inmates or other persons within the facility.
“The Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, is calm, peaceful and secure,” the statement added.
The response comes amid a report by SaharaReporters alleging that some high-profile inmates were affected during a search operation at the facility.
According to media reports, former Skye Bank Chairman, Tunde Ayeni, was allegedly robbed of a wedding ring and wristwatch valued at over ₦120 million during the operation.