By kawaekwune Jeffrey
In anticipation of the nationwide protests against bad governance set to begin on August 1, the Federal Government has declared all 256 custodial centers across the country as “red zones,” emphasizing the inviolability of these facilities.
Controller General of Corrections, Hailey Nababa, issued the warning in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja. The statement, signed on his behalf by Service Spokesman, ACC Abubakar Danlami Umar, outlined the critical importance of these centers to public safety and national security.
“In view of the purported national protest scheduled to hold on the first day of August 2024, the Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to inform the public that the Custodial Centres have been designated as red zones; therefore, any person or group of persons who have no business whatsoever, should steer clear,” the CGC stated.
The statement continued: “Custodial and Non-custodial Centres are critical national assets which are germane to public safety as well as national security. Tampering with or attacking them will lead to a breakdown of law and order, and further exacerbate the security of the society in general.”
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) says it has made comprehensive security arrangements to protect these facilities. According to the body, the Ministry of Interior Joint Taskforce (MOIJTF) has been activated to provide additional security in and around custodial facilities nationwide.
“The Controller General of Corrections, Haliru Nababa FICMC, MFR, mni, appreciates the continuous cooperation of members of the public in ensuring peace and tranquility in and around correctional centers nationwide,” the statement added.
The Federal Government’s declaration comes as part of a broader strategy to maintain order during the planned nationwide protests, which are expected to draw significant public participation. The protests, said to be driven by widespread dissatisfaction with governance and economic hardship, have seen extensive mobilization across various social and political groups.The declaration of custodial centers as “red zones” highlights the government’s concern over potential security breaches and the need to safeguard critical infrastructure.
The involvement of the Ministry of Interior Joint Taskforce in providing additional security underscores the seriousness with which the government is approaching the situation.
