Minister of Interior, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced that President Bola Tinubu has issued a firm directive to ensure the apprehension of all escaped inmates across the country.
Between 2021 and 2022, the nation witnessed a series of attacks on custodial centers, leading to the escape of numerous inmates.
Notable among these targeted facilities were prisons in Kuje, Kogi, Jos, Abologo, Owerri, Okitipupa, and Oko. Presently, approximately 4000 inmates remain at large….CONTINUE READING
In a press conference following an inspection of the Nigerian Immigration Service and Nigerian Correctional Service facilities, Tunji-Ojo affirmed the commitment of the agencies to meticulously execute the president’s mandate concerning escaped prisoners.
He emphasized that collaborative efforts with various security agencies would be employed to recapture the fugitives.
Tunji-Ojo stated, “The president’s unequivocal directive is to reapprehend the fleeing inmates. We will collaborate closely with other security agencies to achieve this objective. Our unwavering determination is to ensure their swift return and prevent any further escapes.”
Additionally, the minister conveyed the administration’s zero-tolerance stance toward any acts of sabotage or negligence by correctional officers.
He declared, “Acts such as negligence of duty will not be condoned. We are prepared to take decisive action against anyone attempting to undermine the system.”
During his visit to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Tunji-Ojo pledged to review existing agreements with the aim of enhancing the agency’s efficiency.
He disclosed plans to establish a review team to assess agreements that might be hindering the agency’s fulfillment of its mandates.
He asserted, “Any agreements that impede our national progress must be reevaluated and rectified. A dedicated team will be assigned to oversee this process.”
The minister emphasized the urgent need to expedite the process of obtaining international passports, citing personal experiences where Nigerians endured lengthy waiting periods.
He recounted how his own daughter encountered a six-month delay in obtaining her passport. He remarked, “Waiting for a passport should not feel like waiting for access to heaven.”
Furthermore, Tunji-Ojo directed that Nigerian citizens seeking international passports be treated respectfully, particularly those residing abroad.
He underscored this directive’s significance by highlighting the necessity for exemplary service at the London passport office, emphasizing that “Nigerians, regardless of their location, deserve the utmost respect.
The London Immigration office, in particular, must enhance its service quality and treat Nigerian applicants with the honor they deserve. Our citizens should take pride in their nationality wherever they are.”
