The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has taken swift disciplinary action following the discovery that a death row inmate at the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, unlawfully used a mobile phone to conduct a live session on TikTok from inside the custodial facility.
The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, described the incident as a serious breach of custodial security and a violation of the provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the Service Standing Orders, and other operational regulations.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections JN Osuji, preliminary investigations confirmed that the inmate was in illegal possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media while in custody.
The statement disclosed that the phone has since been recovered during a search operation and secured as evidence for further investigation.
As part of immediate security measures, the inmate has been transferred to another custodial facility where he is being held under enhanced security pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
The Service also announced the immediate removal of the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre alongside two other principal officers after investigators identified security lapses that may have contributed to the breach.
It explained that the administrative action is intended to ensure a transparent, impartial and unhindered investigation and does not prejudice the final outcome of the probe.
The NCoS noted that the incident has reinforced the need for the Controller-General’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening security across custodial centres, preventing the smuggling of prohibited items and tightening compliance with operational procedures nationwide.
While confirming the inmate’s culpability, the Service said investigations are continuing to determine whether any officers, inmates or external collaborators facilitated the security breach through negligence or deliberate complicity.
The Correctional Service warned that anyone found to have aided, condoned or failed in their responsibilities in connection with the incident would face appropriate disciplinary and administrative sanctions in line with extant regulations.
The NCoS appreciated members of the public and the media for drawing attention to the matter and appealed against speculation while investigations continue.
It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safe, secure and humane custody of all persons legally committed into its care through sustained reforms, professionalism and accountability.
