The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) has directed its arms unit to prepare for potential security challenges during the upcoming nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests, SaharaReporters has learned. In accordance with this directive, officers have been instructed to service the weapons in their armory.
Sources indicate that this order is meant to ensure the arms unit is ready to maintain order and prevent incidents similar to those during the #EndSARS protests, when some custodial centers were attacked, and inmates were released. Deputy Controllers have been specifically tasked with ensuring that their arms units are properly serviced and prepared for the protests scheduled for August.
An insider at the Enugu prison told SaharaReporters that all staff on leave or in training have been recalled, including nursing mothers. The source noted that warders and wardresses, including nursing mothers, are now on 12-hour shifts, a significant change from their previous three-shift system.
“Our work schedule has changed since last week. From today, work starts from 6 am to 6 pm. A circular from our headquarters in Abuja also directed the arms unit to ensure that their weapons are in good condition and properly serviced. Even nursing mothers are not exempt due to manpower shortages, so they will also work from 8 am to 6 pm,” the source shared with SaharaReporters.
The planned protest aims to address concerns over government ineptitude, corruption, and lack of accountability, with organizers urging nationwide participation. In response, Nigerian authorities have increased security presence, escalating tensions in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Most governors have intensified campaigns against the protest, using various groups including the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), church leaders, and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) to discourage participation.
Efforts by SaharaReporters to get a reaction from the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Abubakar, were unsuccessful as he neither answered calls nor responded to a text message inquiry.
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