The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) are at loggerheads over allegations of criminality and drug trafficking in correctional centres.

HURIWA expressed shock that months after the scandal involving transgender socialite, Bobrisky—sentenced to six months in prison for naira abuse—an investigative panel reportedly found that he lived in a special flat outside the prison facility, a matter the authorities have yet to address.

According to the panel, Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okuneye, allegedly enjoyed privileges such as frequent visits from family and friends, a furnished single cell, a refrigerator, and even access to a phone. The panel was set up following bribery allegations made against him by social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan. Bobrisky, however, denied the bribery claims.

HURIWA further alleged that the Federal Ministry of Interior had allowed the status quo to persist, despite widespread reports of organised criminality in correctional facilities across the country. The group claimed these activities included sex and drug trafficking, bribery of prison officials, and inmates coordinating crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and advanced fee fraud with the aid of corrupt staff.

In a statement, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, criticised the Minister of Interior.Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for focusing more on the Nigerian Immigration Service while neglecting the correctional system.

He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the minister to sanitise the sector, warning that allowing such entrenched criminal activities to thrive within correctional centres poses a grave threat to national security.

HURIWA argued that it was extremely dangerous to permit terrorists, bandits, and drug traffickers to continue their operations from within facilities funded by taxpayers.

Responding, the NCoS dismissed the allegations as false, baseless, and malicious. The Service maintained that the claims did not reflect its vision, mission, or core values.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian Correctional Service operates strictly within the framework of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Service said.

“We uphold integrity, accountability, and discipline as enshrined in extant regulations, which emphasise zero tolerance for corruption and the protection of human rights.”

The NCoS added that it works closely with agencies such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Police, and Department of State Services to combat drug trafficking and other organised crimes, stressing that any officer found culpable is subject to disciplinary action. It noted that in August 2025 alone, 224 personnel faced various sanctions, including dismissal, for offences such as drug trafficking.

It further highlighted its internal monitoring mechanisms, including audits and routine inspections, in line with financial regulations that emphasise probity and accountability.

“While we welcome constructive criticism and genuine partnership with civil society organisations, we call on HURIWA and other stakeholders to channel verifiable complaints through appropriate channels rather than resorting to sensationalism,” the Service added.