SUNTV Global Channel Report | February 15, 2026
A major scandal is unfolding at the Nigerian Correctional Service following explosive allegations that officials at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja have been forcing inmates to pay money before receiving basic and humane treatment.
The allegations were formally presented in a petition submitted by legal practitioner Bala I. Dakum to the Controller-General of the correctional service, accusing senior officers at the facility of running what he described as a “systematic extortion network” targeting vulnerable inmates.
According to the petition dated February 11, 2026, Dakum — who says he represents more than 100 inmates — accused the Officer-in-Charge, DCC Rashid O., along with two aides, Igodo Ebitari Enimeni and Dauda Sani Haladu, of facilitating illegal payments for access to essential rights.
The lawyer alleged that inmates and their families were repeatedly compelled to pay for:
- Medical attention
- Movement within the facility
- Basic welfare support
- Humane treatment guaranteed under law
He claimed the practice created a climate of fear and exploitation inside the prison, warning that tensions among inmates are rising dangerously.
“This situation is a ticking time bomb,” Dakum reportedly stated, cautioning that unrest or violence could erupt if authorities fail to intervene swiftly.
Dakum argued that the alleged acts violate the Correctional Service Act, public service regulations, and constitutional protections for inmates. He also referenced the 2022 terrorist attack on the Kuje facility, noting that he had over 60 clients detained there at the time and helped secure the return of nearly all who escaped.
He further alleged that one of his clients was killed by security operatives during the chaotic aftermath of the jailbreak.
In his petition, Dakum demanded:
- An independent investigation into the allegations
- A forensic audit of officers’ financial records
- Immediate redeployment of accused officials pending inquiry
He stated he withheld documentary evidence of alleged financial transfers for security reasons but is prepared to submit them to investigators.
The Public Relations Officer of the correctional service, Jane Osuji, confirmed receipt of the petition and announced that the Controller-General has ordered an urgent probe.
“We have directed a full investigation to determine the truth of these claims. The Service will handle this matter transparently and professionally,” she said.
She emphasized that any wrongdoing discovered would not be ignored.
However, the Officer-in-Charge of the facility has strongly denied the allegations, stating he only assumed duty about a month ago.
He described the accusations as false, insisting he is committed to ending any unethical practices within the prison.
The allegations have sparked renewed scrutiny of prison conditions in Nigeria, with rights advocates warning that systemic abuse and corruption within correctional facilities remain a serious national issue.
As investigations begin, all eyes are now on authorities to determine whether the shocking claims of “pay-to-survive” inside one of Nigeria’s most high-profile prisons are true.
