Nigeria Govt Suspends 2 Prison Officials Over Attempts To Procure Passport For Prisoners

The Federal Government has suspended two personnel of the Nigerian Correctional Service(NCoS) over attempts to procure international Passport for an inmate. The suspension was announced in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, Umar Abubakar. Abubakar, a Deputy Controller of Corrections, described the incident as a misconduct “detected through the automated passport application and other holistic reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service.” He also said the detection of the misconduct was as a result of interagency collaboration in the Ministry of Interior.

 Abubakar who explained that the incident happened a fortnight ago, added that it was a contradiction of established rules and procedures and therefore becomes unacceptable and impermissible. While alluding to a publication on the incident, Abubakar said “necessary disciplinary actions were taken including the suspension of the two correctional personnel implicated in the incident by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) chaired by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubumni Tunji-Ojo.” “The Controller General of Corrections (CGC) Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has reiterated his commitment to upholding discipline, transparency, and professionalism in all custodial centres across the country. 

 “The Service categorically states that any personnel found engaging in acts of misconduct, corruption, or sabotage will be shown the way out of the system” he said. He said the Service remains committed to its mandate of safe custody, humane treatment, and reform of inmates in line with global best practices.