The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has ramped up security at its facilities in anticipation of planned nationwide protests.
To prevent potential attacks on correctional centers, the NCoS has activated its K9 units, intelligence teams, and armed squads, ensuring they are on high alert.
Abubakar Umar, spokesperson for the NCoS, told The PUNCH that the Controller General has sought assistance from other security agencies to help protect custodial centers nationwide.
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.”
This move comes after the #EndSARS protests in October 2020, which led to the escape of over 2,000 inmates from facilities in Edo and Ondo states.