FG Receives Report on Alleged Corruption, Torture in Nigerian Correctional Centres

The Federal Government has received the report of an independent investigative panel established to examine allegations of corruption, abuse of power, torture and other forms of misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The development was disclosed by Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who said the panel completed its assignment after 18 months of investigation.

According to the minister, the committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, was inaugurated in November 2024 to investigate claims of wrongdoing and institutional challenges within correctional facilities across the country.

Tunji-Ojo said the findings and recommendations of the panel would provide a roadmap for comprehensive reforms aimed at improving correctional administration and inmates’ welfare.

“The findings will serve as a strong foundation for transforming our correctional facilities from mere places of incarceration into true centres of rehabilitation, reformation, restoration and reintegration,” he stated.

The minister highlighted ongoing efforts by the government to strengthen rehabilitation programmes for inmates, noting significant improvements in reintegration outcomes.

According to him, recorded cases of recidivism dropped sharply from 11,616 inmates in 2023 to 1,382 inmates in 2025, reflecting the impact of educational and vocational initiatives within correctional centres.

He further disclosed that 62 inmates are currently pursuing postgraduate studies, while 261 are enrolled in undergraduate programmes. Additionally, 1,125 inmates are engaged in other educational programmes, while 9,582 are participating in vocational and skills acquisition training.

Tunji-Ojo reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians, including those in custody, have access to opportunities for personal development and rehabilitation.

“As a government, we are committed to ensuring that no Nigerian, whether free or in custody, is left behind,” he said.

The minister added that the next phase would focus on implementing the panel’s recommendations through robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms designed to strengthen transparency, accountability and service delivery within correctional facilities.

He stressed that the government’s objective is to eliminate practices that undermine the dignity and rights of inmates.

“Our goal is clear. Never again should our correctional centres be associated with dehumanisation, corruption, or discrimination,” he added.

The report is expected to shape future reforms within the Nigerian Correctional Service as authorities seek to modernise the system and reinforce its role in rehabilitation and reintegration.