The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed reports of gender-based violence (GBV) in custodial centres nationwide, insisting that such incidents do not occur within its facilities.
Deputy Controller General of the Legal Department, Ibrahim Idris, stated during a public hearing in Abuja that there had been no cases, or even consideration, of physical assault on inmates in recent years. He described GBV allegations against the service as unfounded and largely driven by social media sensationalism.
Idris encouraged non-governmental organisations visiting custodial centres to freely interact with inmates and report any proven cases of abuse, assuring that the Controller General, Sylvester Nwakuche, would take swift action on credible complaints. He also stressed that relevant prison laws were not mere guidelines but binding mandates, and highlighted ongoing empowerment initiatives for discharged female inmates, including quarterly distribution of vocational starter packs to aid reintegration into society.
Meanwhile, the Regy & Henry Amazing Grace Foundation has called for urgent reforms to address the plight of women in custody. In a position paper, the foundation’s National Coordinator, Dr. Regina Duru, highlighted the poor living conditions, inadequate healthcare, and economic disadvantages faced by women in Nigerian prisons.
Duru emphasised that many female inmates were imprisoned for minor offences or as victims of circumstance and urged stronger policies to prevent GBV, enhance economic empowerment through vocational training, and improve access to maternal and reproductive healthcare. She called for collaborative action between government, civil society, and individuals to protect the rights and dignity of women in custody.
