NCoS Rejects Claims of Missing Inmates’ Valuables After Kuje Prison Search

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has pushed back against allegations that officers stole valuables belonging to inmates during a recent search operation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja.

Responding to reports circulating online, the agency described the claims as inaccurate and misleading, stressing that the exercise followed established procedures and was carried out strictly for security purposes.

In a statement released on Friday, the Service Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, said the search formed part of routine efforts to maintain order and ensure safety within the correctional facility. She explained that any prohibited items recovered during the operation were properly handled and documented according to official guidelines.

The correctional service also dismissed reports suggesting that valuables worth more than N120 million disappeared during the exercise. According to the agency, there is no record to support such claims.

Osuji stated that the allegations do not reflect the realities of how custodial facilities operate in Nigeria. She noted that inmates are not allowed to keep unauthorized items or large amounts of money while in custody. Personal belongings declared upon admission, she added, are carefully documented and secured until the inmate is legally released.

The statement further explained that records at the Kuje facility contain no evidence that the items mentioned in media reports were ever declared by any inmate. Likewise, officials said those items were neither recovered nor listed during the search operation.

According to the NCoS, the exercise was a standard security measure designed to preserve discipline, maintain order, and safeguard the integrity of custodial operations. The agency insisted that officers conducted the operation professionally and in line with existing regulations.

Officials also emphasized that correctional facilities operate under clear rules that restrict inmates from keeping unauthorized possessions or significant sums of cash.

“The Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, remains calm, peaceful, and secure,” the statement said.

The response follows a report by SaharaReporters alleging that several high-profile inmates were affected during the search.

Among those mentioned was former Skye Bank chairman, Tunde Ayeni, who was reportedly said to have lost a wedding ring and wristwatch valued at more than N120 million. The report also claimed that suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, lost approximately N2 million during the operation.

In addition, the publication alleged that senior correctional officials carried out the search alongside operatives and DSS dogs, creating tension within the facility. It further claimed that some valuables were taken without proper documentation.

The Nigerian Correctional Service, however, firmly rejected the allegations and maintained that the operation was lawful from start to finish. The agency said there is no evidence to support claims that inmates were robbed during the exercise.

It also urged journalists and members of the public to verify information through official channels before publishing or sharing reports. According to the service, spreading unconfirmed allegations can damage public trust and create unnecessary confusion.

The NCoS reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and ongoing reforms aimed at improving security and accountability across correctional centres throughout the country.