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The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has sought the intervention of the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief Justice of the Federation (CJN), the Attorney General of the Federation, state Chief Justices, and other stakeholders regarding the fate of over 48,900 inmates in various custodial centres across the country.
The NCoS stated that the fate of the 48,932 inmates currently awaiting trial remains a top concern for the Service, especially concerning their upkeep, the conditions of the custodial centres where they are held, and their security.
The Acting Controller-General of the Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, stated that it has become imperative for all stakeholders to address the challenges once and for all and to find lasting solutions to these issues so as not to jeopardise the ongoing reforms in the Service.
He noted that speedy and uninterrupted trials of the inmates have become necessary.
Nwakuche, who made the remarks at the Service Service’s headquarters on Monday while addressing senior officers, pledged to tackle the backlog of trial cases awaiting in the Correctional Service facilities.
“Keeping inmates in secure custody is a premium mandate that should never be compromised. Our role in the internal security architecture of keeping people safe and humane custody must be preserved.
“The issues of escapes, riots, and attacks, which often result from negligence, should never be allowed to repeat.
“The consequences of such grievous offences are severe and should be avoided at all costs. You have been warned. Take this message to your staff,” the Acting Controller-General said.
He vowed that under his watch, improved management of custodial facilities would be witnessed across the country, whilst due attention would be given to the security of inmates.
Nwakuche promised to address overcrowding and enhance the Service’s integrity, urging personnel to take their jobs seriously.
The NCoS boss warned against negligence that could lead to escapes, riots, or attacks, describing such incidents as unacceptable.
According to Nwakuche, with over 48,900 inmates currently awaiting trial—more than 60 percent of whom face non-bailable charges such as armed robbery and murder-it has become necessary for stakeholders to come to the rescue.
Nwakuche emphasised the need for collaboration with state executives and judicial authorities to encourage non-custodial measures, such as parole and community service, to reduce the influx of inmates.
“Presently, our statistics as of Monday, 6th January 2025, show that 48,932 inmates in custody are Awaiting Trial Persons.
“I intend to interface with the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Inspector-General of Police, and other prosecuting agencies and critical stakeholders to fast-track the trial of these inmates, especially those charged with non-bailable offences like armed robbery, murder, and others that constitute over 60 percent of Awaiting Trial Persons.
“Meanwhile, I want to urge you to liaise with your state Chief Judges, Attorneys-General, and Commissioners of Police to further address the challenges,” he said.
Nwakuche noted that the construction of 3,000-capacity ultramodern custodial facilities in some parts of the country is part of measures to alleviate pressure on existing infrastructure and make the environment safer for inmates.
He stated that the NCoS has plans to deploy technological solutions to improve security and efficiency in custodial management, thereby reducing incidents of escapes and riots.
