By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria
The Federal Government has presented the report of the Independent Investigative Panel on alleged misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and institutional reform.
The report was unveiled at a stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Ministry of Interior on Wednesday, with participation from government officials, security agencies, civil society organisations, and development partners.
This was confirmed in a press statement released by the Head, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Interior, Mary Ali (Mrs).
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the panel was set up to ensure a thorough assessment of issues affecting the correctional system.
He said: “The work of this panel represents a significant step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity within our correctional system.”
The minister explained that the panel, inaugurated in November 2024, carried out investigations into allegations including corruption, abuse of authority, and human rights violations.
He added: “We chose to confront the problem directly because we believe that every challenge presents an opportunity for lasting reform.”
Tunji-Ojo noted that the findings would guide reforms aimed at improving service delivery, staff welfare, and institutional capacity within the correctional system.
He said correctional facilities must evolve into centres of rehabilitation and reintegration, rather than serving only custodial purposes.
Also speaking, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, described the initiative as a step toward strengthening accountability in the justice system.
He said: “This exercise is a milestone in reinforcing public trust and strengthening accountability within the justice system.”
Fagbemi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting human rights through strengthened institutional frameworks and oversight mechanisms.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, said the engagement was designed to promote dialogue and collective ownership of reform outcomes.
She said the panel’s work was guided by fairness, independence, and commitment to public interest.
Stakeholders at the event identified key challenges affecting the correctional system, including overcrowding, prolonged pre-trial detention, and gaps in implementation of legal frameworks.
They recommended expansion of non-custodial measures, improved access to justice, protection of vulnerable groups, and stronger accountability mechanisms.
The Federal Government said the report would serve as a foundation for ongoing reforms aimed at building a more transparent, humane, a
nd efficient correctional system.
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