New DPP, NCoS Controller-General Forge Strategic Alliance To Decongest Custodial Centres

The newly appointed Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Oyedepo Iseoluwa Rotimi, SAN, has paid a courtesy visit to the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, at the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) headquarters, Abuja, reaffirming the commitment of his office to strengthening inter-agency collaboration for a more efficient and credible criminal justice system.

The visit focused on enhancing cooperation between the Office of the DPP and the NCoS in key operational areas, including effective management of inmates, timely production of inmates in court, and improved custodial records management.

Speaking during the visit, the DPP emphasised the importance of synergy among criminal justice stakeholders, noting that when criminal justice actors work harmoniously, the system becomes more credible, efficient, and responsive. He added that strengthened collaboration would help reduce procedural delays and improve case management across the justice chain.

In his remarks, the Controller-General of Corrections expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as strategic and timely. He noted that the engagement reflects the DPP’s clear understanding of the critical role the corrections system plays and the strategic importance of the Office of the DPP within the broader criminal justice architecture.

The Controller-General also provided insights into the Service’s operational statistics, particularly the challenges posed by the high number of Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs). He highlighted the need for coordinated and sustained efforts between both institutions to address the awaiting trial conundrum and accelerate the administration of justice.

Responding, the DPP disclosed that his office is already developing a number of joint initiatives with the Service, assuring that concrete actions will soon commence to address identified challenges and ease custodial congestion.

The visit marked a renewed commitment by both institutions to deepen institutional partnership, enhance operational efficiency, and promote a smarter, more responsive, and result-oriented criminal justice system.