The Nigerian Correctional Service has reported zero incidents of jailbreaks and attacks across all 253 custodial centers in the country throughout 2023.
The spokesperson for NCoS, Assistant Controller of Corrections Abubakar Umar, highlighted in an interview on Thursday in Abuja that the government had undertaken extensive measures to enhance the security of custodial centers.
These measures encompassed both infrastructural developments and strategic security initiatives aimed at countering potential threats, whether internal or external. The commitment to averting trends from previous years, marked by alarming jailbreaks and attacks, prompted the implementation of proactive strategies nationwide.
At the outset of 2023, the management, led by NCoS, had announced a stringent approach to tackling jailbreaks.
This included deploying substantial personnel and advanced technology for intelligence gathering to forestall any potential attacks.
Recalling the context of previous incidents, it’s essential to note that the year 2022 witnessed a significant attack on a highly fortified custodial center in Abuja by the Islamic State West Africa Province, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram.
This incident, occurring on July 5, led to the successful infiltration of the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, resulting in the escape of 879 inmates, with subsequent apprehensions of over half of them.
Umar emphasized the significance of the absence of jail attacks in 2023, describing it as a remarkable accomplishment. He acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of security personnel, citing the implementation of robust protocols and procedures as instrumental in preventing untoward incidents.
“Don’t forget that it is only in the absence of chaos that businesses strive.
“This year, we ensure that these inmates are kept in our custodial centres without any problem, no riot, no agitation, and the inmates are going about their normal businesses and that is what gives the society the safety they require.
“A secure and well-maintained custodial system not only upholds the rule of law but also provides an environment conducive to the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, “he said.
Furthermore, Umar attributed the peaceful custodial environment to proper inmate rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.
Recognizing the magnitude of caring for inmates, he emphasized that the safety and peace of custodial centers contribute to public safety, fostering an environment conducive to societal well-being.
Umar credited the coordinated efforts of various stakeholders, including the Nigerian Police Force, NCoS authorities, and other security agencies, for playing a pivotal role in maintaining the security of custodial centers.
“Their cooperation and vigilance have undoubtedly contributed to this positive outcome, “he said.
