FG Unveils Panel Report on Correctional Service Reforms after 16 Months

FG Unveils Panel Report on Correctional Service Reforms after 16 Months

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Federal Government has unveiled the report of an independent investigative panel on reforms and accountability in the Nigerian Correctional Service, following the completion of a 16-month probe into alleged misconduct within the system.

The report was presented at a stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Federal Ministry of Interior, bringing together representatives from the justice sector, security agencies, civil society organisations and development partners.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the panel was established to ensure a thorough and transparent examination of challenges confronting the correctional system.

“The work of this panel represents a significant step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity within our correctional system,” he said. “We chose to confront the problem directly because we believe that every challenge presents an opportunity for lasting reform.”

The panel, inaugurated on November 24, 2024, concluded its assignment after months of investigations, consultations and analysis. Its findings were prompted by allegations of corruption, abuse of office and human rights violations in correctional facilities across the country.

Tunji-Ojo stressed that correctional centres must move beyond their traditional custodial role to focus on rehabilitation, reintegration and societal transformation.

He added that the report would serve as a blueprint for far-reaching reforms, including improvements in staff welfare and service delivery.

Also speaking, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described the exercise as a major step in strengthening accountability within Nigeria’s justice system.

He noted that the initiative would help rebuild public trust while reinforcing human rights protections through institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission.

Fagbemi further highlighted the importance of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, which he said marked a shift from a punitive system to one centred on rehabilitation and respect for human dignity.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and Chairperson of the panel, Magdalene Ajani, said the process reflected government’s commitment to transparency and reform.

“The panel’s work was guided by principles of fairness, independence, and commitment to the public interest,” she said, adding that the engagement provided an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to shaping the reform agenda.

Goodwill messages from stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association and the United Nations Children’s Fund, emphasised the need for swift implementation of the panel’s recommendations.

Participants highlighted persistent challenges such as overcrowding in correctional facilities, prolonged pre-trial detention and gaps in the enforcement of legal frameworks.

They also called for expanded use of non-custodial measures, improved access to justice, stronger protection for vulnerable groups and enhanced welfare for correctional personnel.

The Minister urged all stakeholders to support the reform process, noting that sustainable change would require collective effort and adherence to the rule of law.