FG Deepens Accountability, Unveils Reform Roadmap for Nigerian Correctional Service
By Raphael Ekpang
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform with the formal presentation of the report of the Independent Investigative Panel on alleged misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The report was unveiled at a high-level stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Ministry of Interior, bringing together key actors from across government, the justice sector, security agencies, civil society organisations, and development partners.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated that the establishment of the panel reflected a deliberate decision to undertake a thorough and honest assessment of the issues, rather than a superficial review. The panel, inaugurated on November 24, 2024, concluded its assignment after 16 months of extensive investigation, stakeholder consultations, and analysis.
“The work of this panel represents a significant step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity within our correctional system,” the Minister said. “We chose to confront these challenges directly because we believe that every problem presents an opportunity for lasting reform.”
The investigation was initiated in response to serious allegations, including corruption, abuse of authority, and human rights violations within correctional facilities. Its findings underscore the urgent need to align the operations of the Service with principles of justice, professionalism, and respect for human dignity.
The Minister emphasized that correctional facilities must evolve beyond mere custodial centres into institutions focused on reformation, rehabilitation, reintegration, and broader societal transformation.
He further noted that the report will guide far-reaching reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and addressing systemic gaps, including staff welfare and service delivery standards. He called on stakeholders to actively support the reform process, stressing that sustainable change requires collective responsibility and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law and human dignity.
In his remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Honourable Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, commended the Minister of Interior for his leadership and foresight in initiating the investigative process. He described the exercise as a milestone in restoring public trust and reinforcing accountability within the justice system.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to upholding human rights through strengthened institutional frameworks, including the National Human Rights Commission and its oversight mechanisms such as the National Preventive Mechanism. He also highlighted the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, as a landmark reform that shifted the system from a punitive model to a modern correctional framework centred on rehabilitation, reintegration, and respect for human dignity.
Earlier, in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary and Chairperson of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, described the engagement as a vital platform for dialogue, reflection, and shared ownership of reform outcomes. She noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform under the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that the panel’s work was guided by fairness, independence, and dedication to the public interest.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Director-General, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar, Esq.; the Chairman, Conference of Speakers (represented by Mr. Busari Sarafadeen); the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN; and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), represented by Mona Aika. They collectively emphasized that the report must serve as a catalyst for decisive, measurable action toward building a correctional system that is humane, efficient, transparent, and aligned with national priorities and international human rights standards.
Participants also highlighted persistent systemic challenges, including overcrowding, prolonged pre-trial detention, and gaps in the implementation of legal frameworks. There was broad consensus on the need for sustained and coordinated reforms across institutions.
Key recommendations include: Expansion of non-custodial measures, Improved access to justice, Protection of vulnerable groups, particularly children, Strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms and Enhanced welfare and working conditions for correctional personnel
The Honourable Minister formally declared the engagement open, urging all stakeholders to approach the reform process with sincerity, objectivity, and a shared commitment to meaningful change.
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