Alleged corruption, torture: Panel orders mapping of correctional facilities nationwide

The Independent Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruption, Abuse of Power, Torture, and Other Inhumane Treatment by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has directed a nationwide mapping of juvenile correctional facilities.

The panel also ordered submission of a comprehensive status report to the National Assembly.

Dr Uju Agomoh, Secretary of the panel, stated this on Monday in Abuja during a media interaction on the issues highlighted during the panel’s third public hearing.

Agomoh said the day’s deliberations focused on the treatment of “illegal persons” in NCoS custody, challenges facing the service in implementing the NCoS Act, 2019, and standing orders.

This, she said, was with emphasis on Section 35 (1) and (3), Section 13 (3b) and (4), and relevant provisions of the standing orders relating to the treatment of children.

Agomoh said that clear directives were issued for a detailed status report on all custodial facilities nationwide, including “Borstal facilities” managed by the NCoS.

“Special instructions were given regarding a facility in Ilorin to determine whether it should be categorised as a hostel or halfway home.

“This is also to ensure that classification of women’s facilities follows the same standard,” she said.

Agomoh added that the panel had also ordered immediate action on water and sanitation issues in affected centres.

On the welfare of young girls in detention, the panel examined NCoS’s relationship with state agencies providing such facilities.

She said the Panel recommended strategies to improve collaboration, especially since the service now falls under the Concurrent Legislative List.

According to her, the panel directed the NCoS to map all states to identify locations of facilities for young offenders and submit this information promptly to Parliament.

“The day’s sessions also reviewed the informal sector, focusing on the need for proper oversight of facilities not governed by the Community Council, and on ensuring correctional measures are effectively implemented in such places,” she said.

Agomoh said data management within the NCoS was commendable, noting that the progress is supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme under the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

This, she said, included provision of data equipment and logistical support for the parliament.