Tension Erupts at Kuje Prison as Inmates Protest Planned Transfer of 300 Terror Suspects

Tension reportedly gripped the Kuje Custodial Centre in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) last Thursday as inmates staged a protest over plans by authorities to transfer about 300 suspected terrorists to the facility, amid concerns over severe overcrowding and security risks.

According to multiple security sources familiar with the development, the protest was triggered after inmates received information that the Federal Government was preparing to relocate hundreds of terrorism suspects, including alleged members of Boko Haram, Lakurawa groups, and armed bandit networks, to the already congested correctional facility.

One of the sources told SaharaReporters that the protest occurred within the CTU custody section of the prison.

"There was a protest in Kuje prison on Thursday at the CTU custody. The inmates were informed that some people would be moved out of their custody area because the government wanted to bring in about 300 suspected terrorists, including Boko Haram members, bandits and those described as Lakurawa terrorists," the source said.

The source further claimed that the facility had significantly exceeded its official capacity.

"The prison was designed to hold about 550 inmates, but it currently houses approximately 1,150 people. This means more than 600 inmates are sleeping on the floor because there are insufficient beds and accommodation facilities," the source alleged.

According to the source, many inmates have spent years in detention under difficult conditions.

"The government has not made adequate provision for inmates who have already spent years in the facility. Some people have been here for five, 10, and even 12 years. Many have been sleeping on the ground because there are not enough beds. Now, authorities want to bring another 300 suspected terrorists into the same facility," the source added.

Another security source alleged that the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) had supplied about 300 beds intended for the incoming detainees, a move that has further heightened concerns among inmates and some prison officials.

"The NSA has reportedly sent about 300 beds for these suspected terrorists. That is one of the issues causing anxiety among inmates and some officials," the source claimed.

The source also raised concerns about the security implications of transferring a large number of terrorism suspects to Kuje Correctional Centre, citing previous assessments allegedly highlighting vulnerabilities at the facility.

"We were informed that security personnel linked to the NSA visited Kuje prison about two months ago and raised concerns about the possibility of a jailbreak. People are now questioning why these suspects are being brought here despite those concerns," the source said.

Another point of contention, according to the sources, is the potential displacement of existing inmates.

"Many inmates have used their own resources to repair cells and ensure electricity supply in some sections of the facility. They are worried about being displaced without any arrangements being made for their accommodation," the source stated.

The sources further alleged that frustration among inmates has been compounded by concerns over welfare and living conditions.

"There is no clear arrangement for inmates already sleeping on the floor. Many believe authorities are prioritising the increased allocations that may accompany housing more detainees rather than addressing the welfare needs of those already in custody," the source claimed.

When contacted for comment, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji, said she was unable to respond immediately but requested that details of the inquiry be forwarded to her.

"Please send the message; I will get back to you later," she said.

However, as of the time of filing this report, no official response had been received from the NCoS regarding the allegations.

Kuje Custodial Centre has previously faced security challenges. On July 5, 2022, fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) carried out a coordinated attack on the facility, resulting in a major jailbreak that freed hundreds of inmates, including several high-profile detainees. The incident exposed significant security lapses and remains one of Nigeria's most notable prison breaches in recent years.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has yet to officially confirm the planned transfer of the suspected terrorists to the facility.