The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to comprehensive reforms within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
According to a statement by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Ozoya Imohimi, Tunji-Ojo made this commitment during the official launch of the report on the National Assessment of the Situation of Children and Young Adults Deprived of Liberty, held in Abuja on Tuesday.
He emphasised that the Nigeria Correctional Service Act of 2019 requires a focused approach to juvenile delinquency, prioritizing reforms, rehabilitation, and the reintegration of offenders back into society.
“I’m passionate about giving inmates, especially children and young adults, a second chance, as I strongly believe that a minor action of a minor should not be a major setback for his future,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo expressed concern over the disproportionately high number of correctional centres in Nigeria compared to the inmate-to-population ratio.
He raised critical questions, such as whether the country truly needs 256 correctional centres given that, with a population of over 200 million, Nigeria has only about 84,000 inmates—one of the lowest ratios globally.
He further questioned the adequacy of security personnel, asking, ‘How many armed correctional officers do we have to secure these 256 centres?’ He stressed the need for a thorough evaluation of these issues.
The Minister also addressed the Bobrisky case, stating firmly that it would not be handled with the usual leniency, signalling a shift from the norm.
“We are resolute; by next week the committee will be ready with the report. My concern is not about Bobrisky, but about my officers. If any officer is found wanting, he must face the penalty”.
He noted that the Bola Tinubu administration is committed to more than just renaming prisons as correctional facilities.
He said the government’s primary focus is on implementing comprehensive reforms to transform the Correctional Service into a centre for rehabilitation, reformation, and redemption.
“The correctional service cannot continue to be a point of disgrace to the Nigerian Government. We will not allow the actions of a few to destroy the integrity of the generality of the institution”, Tunji-Ojo said.
He further mentioned that the committee will be expanded to address similar issues more effectively when they arise in the future.
Expressing his gratitude to all contributors, Tunji-Ojo reassured the public that the government would give due attention to every concern raised and prioritize finding sustainable solutions.
Additionally, he reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to supporting UNICEF in tackling issues related to juvenile justice.
