By John Ogunsemore
The Federal Government has suspended two correctional personnel for aiding a convicted inmate to acquire a passport while in custody.
Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Umar Abubakar announced the suspension of the unnamed officers in a Saturday statement.
It was learnt that a probe has been launched to determine how a convicted armed robber, Haruna Ayo, found his way outside the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre to a passport office in Lagos to process travel documents.
The NCoS spokesman said the erring personnel were suspended by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCIFB) chaired by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Abubakar disclosed that the incident was discovered two weeks ago “through the automated passport application and other holistic reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service.”
He noted that the detection of the misconduct was as a result of interagency collaboration in the Ministry of Interior.
“The service found out that such actions contradict established rules and procedures, and are unacceptable and impermissible,” he said.
Abubakar added, “The Controller General of Corrections (CGC) Sylvester Nwakuche MFR has reiterated his commitment to upholding discipline, transparency, and professionalism in all custodial centres across the country.
“The Service categorically states that any personnel found engaging in acts of misconduct, corruption, or sabotage will be shown the way out of the system.
“The public is assured that the Service remains committed to its mandate of safe custody, humane treatment, and reform of inmates in line with global best practices.”