Correctional Service tightens security over hunger protest

In anticipation to the proposed nationwide protests, the Nigerian Correctional Service has heightened security measures, putting its K9, intelligence, and armed units on red alert as of Monday.

In October 2020, a wave of protests swept across major Nigerian cities, with demonstrators demanding an end to police brutality under the banner of #EndSARS

The protests, which achieved the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, were subsequently taken over by unruly elements, leading to violent attacks on correctional facilities and government buildings.

Over 2,000 inmates were reported to have escaped after the attacks on prisons in Edo and Ondo states during the period.

In Edo State, hoodlums, in the guise of #EndSARS protesters, attacked the Oko and Benin custodial centres where a total of 1,993 inmates escaped, while 58 inmates escaped from the Okitipupa custodial centre in Ondo State.

While speaking in an interview with our correspondent on Monday, Abubakar Umar, the NCoS spokesperson, noted that the CG of the service had sought the collaboration of other security agencies to protect the custodial centres across the country.

Umar said, “Since the last unfortunate incident, we have strategised 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.

“Our K9 Department and armed squad have been placed on alert. The CG has issued a strong circular on the need to collaborate with other security agencies to help secure our custodial centres.

“The interior task force which was introduced under the immediate-past minister has been reactivated. Our men are on high alert for any eventuality.”