RismadarVoice Reporters, May 30, 2026
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has denied allegations that its personnel stole valuables belonging to inmates during a recent search operation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja.
The Service described the allegations as false and misleading, insisting that the exercise was a routine security operation conducted in accordance with established procedures.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, the NCoS said the search was aimed at maintaining security, order and discipline within the custodial facility.
According to the statement, all prohibited items recovered during the operation were properly documented and processed in line with the Service’s Standard Operating Procedures.
“The Service wishes to categorically state that the allegation is false, misleading, and inconsistent with the operational realities and established procedures governing custodial facilities in the country,” the statement said.
The NCoS further dismissed reports that inmates were deprived of valuables allegedly worth more than N120 million, stating that its records did not support the claims.
It explained that inmates are not permitted to possess unauthorised items or large sums of money while in custody and that all personal belongings declared at the point of admission are officially documented and safely kept until their lawful release.
“For the avoidance of doubt, what took place at the Custodial Centre in Kuje was a routine security search carried out within the facility, and all recovered prohibited items were duly processed and documented. The exercise was conducted professionally and in line with extant Standard Operating Procedures aimed at maintaining security, order, discipline and the integrity of custodial operations,” the statement added.
The Service also stated that no formal complaint of theft or loss had been received from any inmate or individual through official channels.
“The Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, is calm, peaceful and secure,” it said.
The clarification followed reports alleging that some high-profile inmates were affected during the operation.
According to the reports, former Skye Bank Chairman, Tunde Ayeni, allegedly lost a wedding ring and wristwatch valued at over N120 million, while suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, was said to have lost about N2 million.
The reports further alleged that the operation involved senior correctional officers accompanied by security operatives and sniffer dogs and that some valuables were confiscated without proper documentation.
However, the NCoS rejected the allegations, maintaining that the operation was lawful and professionally conducted.
The Service urged media organisations and members of the public to verify information through official channels before publication, warning that unverified claims could undermine public confidence in government institutions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professionalism and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening accountability and security across correctional facilities nationwide.
