The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has noted with grave concern the recent media reports and public reactions following a viral TikTok live stream involving an inmate on death row at the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, views the incident as a serious breach of custodial security and a violation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the Service Standing Orders and other extant regulations governing custodial operations.
Preliminary findings confirmed that the inmate was in unlawful possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media while in lawful custody.
The device has since been recovered following a search operation and secured as an exhibit for further investigation. As an additional security measure, the inmate has been transferred to another facility where he is being held under enhanced security pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
The investigation has also identified security gaps that may have contributed to the breach.
In demonstration of the Service’s commitment to accountability and institutional integrity, the Controller-General has ordered the immediate removal of the Officer-in-Charge of the Custodial Centre, along with two other principal officers pending the conclusion of the investigations.
This administrative action is without prejudice to the final outcome of the investigation and is intended to ensure a transparent, impartial and unhindered investigative process.
The Service wishes to emphasize the Controller General’s ongoing security reforms since assumption of office, aimed at eliminating security vulnerabilities and preventing the introduction of prohibited items into Custodial Centres.
The preliminary findings from this incidence has further reinforced the need for these reforms and has directed their full implementation and intensified compliance across all Commands and Custodial Centres.
While investigation has established the inmate’s culpability, investigations into the possible involvement, negligence or complicity of any officer, inmate or external collaborator remain ongoing.
The Service wishes to assure Nigerians that anyone found to have facilitated, aided, condoned or failed in their responsibilities in connection with this incident will face appropriate disciplinary and administrative sanctions in accordance with extant regulations.
The Nigerian Correctional Service appreciates the vigilance of members of the public and the media in bringing matters of public interest to national attention.
The Service appeals against speculation while investigations continue and assures Nigerians that it remains resolute in its constitutional mandate of ensuring the safe, secure and humane custody of all persons legally committed into its care through continuous reforms, professionalism and accountability.
E-Signed
JN Osuji
Chief Superintendent of Corrections
Service Public Relations Officer
For: Controller-General of Corrections
