The Federal Government has emphasized the need for correctional officers to be psychologically sound to effectively manage inmates under their care.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this assertion at the second hearing of the Independent Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruption, Abuse of Power, Torture, and Degrading Treatment within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Abuja.
He stated, “The primary duty of a correctional officer is to serve as an agent of rehabilitation, restoration, reformation, and correction—not condemnation. When condemnation replaces correction, the system has failed.”
Tunji-Ojo stressed that officers require psychological assessments because managing individuals who already feel deprived demands mental and emotional stability. He underscored the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of incarcerated individuals, adding that failure in this regard is unacceptable.
The minister affirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda extends to those in incarceration, as a nation’s true character is reflected in how it treats its most vulnerable members.
“Correctional centers are crucial—not just to the criminal justice system but to our national identity and values,” he added.
Addressing the issue of overcrowded prisons, particularly in metropolitan areas, Tunji-Ojo pointed out that Nigeria’s 250 custodial centers are excessive, with many operating below full capacity. He hinted at plans to relocate federal offenders to less congested facilities.
He also urged NCoS personnel to prioritize non-custodial measures to ease congestion and curb corruption in the system.
Acting Controller General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, emphasized the importance of the panel’s findings and recommendations in aligning the agency with global best practices.
Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the panel’s chairperson and Permanent Secretary of the ministry, noted that key stakeholders—including the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the judiciary—play vital roles in sustaining reforms in the correctional and criminal justice systems.
Supporting the government’s efforts, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, reaffirmed that NBA members are committed to ensuring justice for incarcerated individuals.
