The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Kano Command, has refuted claims circulating in a section of the media that a minor is being held in one of its facilities.
“The command categorically states that it has no juvenile offender in any of its custodial centers, which are exclusively designated to keep inmates aged 18 years and above,” said SC Musbahu Lawan KNASS, CPRO Kano Command, in a statement on Monday.
The statement clarifies that an inmate mentioned in a recent news report “has been confirmed to be presently 19 years and 2 months old.”
Lawan said, “In no circumstances does the NCS Kano Command admit minors into its facilities.
“He explained that young offenders are typically referred to institutions like “Bostal Training Institute or Remand Home Goron Dutse located in Kano.”
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The NCS Kano Command condemns the report as “a tactic coined to evade and disrupt the course of justice.”
They urge reporters to verify and confirm tentative reports before going to press.
Lawan advised journalists to contact the Public Relations Officer for confirmation of reports to avoid misleading the public, most especially on sensitive issues that pertain to national security.
The statement also called on the public to disregard and discountenance the report and to support the command as they work towards protecting and making the society safer.