The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has suspended an officer, Sani Saleh-Bodejo, due to alleged unprofessional conduct at the Potiskum Correctional Centre in Yobe State. This development comes after reports emerged of Mr. Saleh-Bodejo, an Assistant Superintendent of Correctional Services, allegedly engaging in sexual misconduct with inmates, including raping and impregnating a female inmate, Blessing Sunday, with the assistance of a female officer.
According to sources, Mr. Saleh-Bodejo, who serves as the yardmaster at the centre, would often sneak into the female section at night to sexually assault inmates. Another inmate, Salma, has also accused him of rape. The NCoS has announced that it has suspended the officers involved in “unprofessional conduct with inmates” pending a full-scale investigation.
The suspension was approved by the Chairman of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire & Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) and Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, after reviewing the preliminary investigation report. The NCoS spokesman, J.N. Osuji, stated that queries and charge sheets have been issued to other officers implicated in the matter to determine their level of involvement.
The NCoS maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for all forms of misconduct, negligence, rights violations, or inappropriate relationships between staff and inmates. The Controller-General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, assured the public of the service’s commitment to professionalism, integrity, and adherence to the rule of law. He noted that correctional facilities nationwide would continue to operate strictly in line with established ethical and operational standards.
The incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and accountability within the correctional system. The NCoS has pledged to take disciplinary measures and possible legal sanctions against any officer found culpable. As the investigation continues, the service’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining a professional environment will be closely watched. The outcome of the investigation is expected to reinforce the significance of adhering to ethical standards in correctional facilities.