In preparation for the anticipated nationwide protests scheduled to begin on August 1, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced heightened security measures across the country’s custodial facilities.
In an official statement released on Monday, the NCoS spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, revealed that the K9, intelligence, and armed squads of the service have been placed on red alert.
He said the move aims to safeguard correctional centres from potential disruptions and attacks, reminiscent of the #EndSARS protests in October 2020, which saw widespread violence and destruction.
During the 2020 protests, demonstrators, who were initially rallying against police brutality, faced violent disruptions from hoodlums.
The disturbances resulted in the attack on correctional facilities in Edo and Ondo states, leading to the escape of over 2,000 inmates. The Oko and Benin custodial centres in Edo witnessed 1,993 inmates escape, while the Okitipupa custodial centre in Ondo experienced the escape of 58 inmates.
To prevent a repeat of such incidents, the NCoS says it has taken extensive measures.
Umar noted that the Comptroller General (CG) of the NCoS has coordinated with other security agencies to enhance the protection of custodial centres.
“Since the last unfortunate incident, we have strategized on the issue of security around our custodial centres. Both overt and covert operations will be conducted. We have deployed intelligence officers across locations where we have our custodial centres,” Umar said.
He said the NCoS has also reactivated its interior task force, a measure previously introduced under the minister, to further bolster security.
He added that the K9 Department and armed squad are on high alert, prepared to respond swiftly to any security threats.
