By Ameh Gabriel
Abuja | August 2, 2025
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly refuted a recent report published by Sahara Reporters alleging that an officer who facilitated a conjugal visit for an inmate at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Afikpo was pardoned, while a whistleblower faced dismissal.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Public Relations Officer of the Service, Umar Abubakar, the NCoS described the report as false, malicious, and a calculated attempt to damage the integrity of the institution.
“The publication is not only misleading but intended to tarnish the image of the Nigerian Correctional Service,” the statement read.
Contrary to the report, the Service clarified that the officer involved ASC I Efe Onakpoya (Service No. 57790) was dismissed following a thorough internal investigation. His dismissal, according to the NCoS, was based on professional misconduct including taking unauthorized photographs of an inmate, Ibuchi Okoro Eze, within the premises of the custodial facility, and uploading them online.
The Service further noted that Onakpoya made unfounded allegations, including the claim that an inmate was allowed out of the facility for romantic encounters an accusation NCoS insists is entirely false and defamatory.
“We are committed to upholding discipline, integrity, and professionalism at all levels of our operation,” the Service emphasized.
“Any behavior that undermines these values will not be condoned.”
The NCoS urged the public to disregard the Sahara Reporters story, describing it as the work of mischief-makers seeking to misinform the public and discredit the Service.
