FG Unveils Correctional Service Probe Report, Vows Sweeping Reforms

By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and far-reaching institutional reforms with the formal presentation of the report of the Independent Investigative Panel probing alleged misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The report was unveiled during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Ministry of Interior, bringing together key actors across government, the justice sector, security agencies, civil society organisations and development partners.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo according to a press release e-signed by the ministry’s Head,  Press and Public Relations, Mary Ali(Mrs) said the establishment of the panel was driven by a deliberate resolve to confront systemic challenges within the correctional system head-on rather than adopt a superficial approach.

“The work of this panel represents a significant step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity within our correctional system,” Tunji-Ojo stated. “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 16 months of investigation, stakeholder consultations and in-depth analysis.

The probe was triggered by serious allegations, including corruption, abuse of authority and human rights violations in correctional facilities. Its findings, according to the Minister, highlight the urgent need to reposition the Service in line with principles of justice, professionalism and respect for human dignity.

Tunji-Ojo stressed that correctional centres must transition beyond mere custodial institutions to facilities focused on reformation, rehabilitation, reintegration and broader societal transformation.

He added that the report would serve as a blueprint for comprehensive reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity, addressing systemic gaps and improving staff welfare and service delivery standards.

Calling for collective action, the Minister urged stakeholders to support the reform agenda, noting that sustainable transformation of the correctional system depends on shared responsibility and adherence to the rule of law and human dignity.

In his remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended the Interior Minister for his leadership and commitment to reforming critical justice institutions.

He described the initiative as “a milestone in reinforcing public trust and strengthening accountability within the justice system,” while reaffirming the government’s dedication to protecting human rights through strengthened institutional frameworks.

Fagbemi noted that mechanisms such as the National Human Rights Commission and the National Preventive Mechanism would play critical oversight roles, adding that the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019 marked a significant shift from a punitive system to a modern correctional framework anchored on rehabilitation, reintegration and respect for human dignity.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Chairperson of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, described the engagement as a vital platform for dialogue, reflection and collective ownership of reform outcomes.

She said, “This initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” adding that the panel’s work was guided by fairness, independence and commitment to public interest.

Goodwill messages from stakeholders, including the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar; representatives of the Conference of Speakers; the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe (SAN); and UNICEF, emphasized that the report must translate into decisive and measurable action.

They collectively stressed the need to build a correctional system that is humane, efficient, transparent and aligned with national priorities and international human rights standards.

Participants also identified persistent challenges within the system, 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, with key recommendations highlighting the expansion of non-custodial measures, improved access to justice, protection of vulnerable groups—especially children—strengthening oversight mechanisms and enhanced welfare for correctional personnel.

Declaring the engagement open, the Minister urged stakeholders to approach the reform process with sincerity, objectivity and a shared commitment to transforming Nigeria’s correctional system.