The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has sanctioned 147 staff members for various acts of misconduct, including involvement in the trafficking of contraband into custodial centres. The Controller General of NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, confirmed this on Tuesday during the destruction of seized contraband and items recovered from correctional centres across the country.
Nwakuche, who had earlier pledged zero tolerance for indiscipline during his inaugural address, stated that the trafficking of contraband could not have occurred without some level of internal compromise within the service. He emphasized that the NCoS had taken action to match its policies with consequences.
“To date, 147 staff members have been sanctioned for misconduct, including complicity in contraband trafficking,” Nwakuche said, highlighting that accountability within the service was non-negotiable. He further stressed that any officer found aiding, ignoring, or facilitating such activities would be in direct violation of their oath and a threat to the integrity of the NCoS.
The NCoS Controller General pointed out the broader implications of contraband smuggling, noting that it fuels violence, sustains criminal networks, and, in some instances, facilitates escape attempts. He warned that any custodial facility compromised by such activities would cease to serve its purpose, instead becoming an extension of the very crimes the service is mandated to correct.
“This is a risk we will not allow,” he stated. “To our officers and men, your responsibility is clear—maintain the highest standards of discipline and vigilance. Any form of compromise will result in firm and decisive action in accordance with the law and service regulations.”
Nwakuche also urged the public, families of inmates, and others interacting with correctional facilities to refrain from attempting to breach the system or influence personnel. He specifically appealed to the public not to conceal prohibited items in food, clothing, or personal effects, warning that the consequences of such actions would be severe.
