The Controller General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Nwakuche, has issued a stern warning to Zonal Coordinators, Commandants of Training Colleges, Schools, and State Command Controllers to secure custodial facilities across Nigeria or face severe consequences.
The warning came during an emergency virtual strategy meeting convened to outline security measures ahead of upcoming festivities and to activate proactive measures against potential security breaches due to the heavy rainy season.
According to a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Service, Umar Abubakar, on Tuesday in Abuja, the CGC emphasized that security of correctional facilities transcends physical infrastructure.
"Secure custodial facilities or face the consequences. This is not just about concrete walls and iron bars, it's about trust, duty, and the safety of every Nigerian. The time for complacency is over," Nwakuche declared during the meeting.
Key Decisions from the Emergency Meeting
During the meeting, the CGC listened to concerns raised by senior officers, offering commendations where deserved and admonishments where necessary. He challenged the officers to develop innovative solutions to enhance security at their respective facilities.
Several critical decisions emerged from the meeting, including:
- Immediate audits of all correctional facilities to assess vulnerabilities
- Activation of proactive measures to bolster high-risk facilities
- Identification and removal of weak links within the custodial chain
- Enhanced surveillance checks across all facilities
Zero-Tolerance Policy for Negligence
The CGC emphasized the service's zero-tolerance policy, warning that officers found guilty of negligence, collusion, or dereliction of duty would face stiff penalties. This underscores the administration's commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria's correctional system.
BenriNews reports that this directive comes at a critical time when security concerns are heightened due to seasonal factors and upcoming national celebrations, requiring extra vigilance from correctional officers nationwide.
The meeting reflects the Nigerian Correctional Service's proactive approach to addressing potential security challenges before they materialize, particularly in light of previous incidents at correctional facilities across the country.
