The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has suspended two of its officers after a convicted inmate was caught attempting to obtain an international passport while still in custody.

The scandal, which was uncovered through the automated passport application system operated by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), highlights the growing impact of ongoing inter-agency reforms and collaboration.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the NCoS Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, the misconduct was flagged two weeks ago following alerts from the NIS system, prompting immediate investigation and disciplinary action.

 “The implicated officers were suspended by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,” the statement said.

Umar added that the Controller General of Corrections, Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, has reaffirmed the service’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, corruption, and breaches of protocol within custodial facilities.

 “The Service categorically states that any personnel found engaging in acts of misconduct, corruption or sabotage will be shown the way out of the system,” he warned.

The NCoS emphasized that it remains committed to its core mandates of secure custody, humane treatment, and the reformation of inmates, in line with international best practices.

The incident has drawn attention to internal monitoring lapses and further underscores the importance of the Ministry of Interior’s recent efforts to strengthen oversight and tighten security protocols across correctional institutions.