Aniekan Nyah, the Controller for the Nigeria Correctional Services in Cross River State, is currently reviewing the progress of a five-member investigative panel. The group was tasked with examining claims that former inmates and criminals are unlawfully occupying land owned by the agency.
These allegations were initially raised by Muri Eyo Effiong Okon V, the clan head of Efut Akani Esuk in the Calabar South Local Government Area. The monarch suggested that displaced ex-convicts have settled into service-owned structures within his territory and are actively engaging in criminal activities. He further claimed that the correctional agency constructed shops and housing units, which were then rented to these individuals.
As a result of these concerns, the traditional leader has advocated for the removal of the correctional facility from his area, arguing that its presence provides no value to the local community. In response, agency spokesperson Effanga Etim confirmed that a committee was immediately assembled to look into the matter. While the investigation remains ongoing, the department has formally rejected the accusation that it is providing shelter or support to former prisoners at its local installations.
