NCoS Removes Prison Chief as Death Row Inmate’s Viral TikTok Video Triggers Security Crackdown
…Death Row Inmate Transferred, Mobile Phone Recovered as Correctional Service Launches Probe
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has removed the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following a security breach that allowed a death row inmate to conduct a viral TikTok live stream from inside the correctional facility.
The Service also confirmed the transfer of the inmate to another custodial centre under enhanced security while investigations into the incident continue.
In a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections, JN Osuji, the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, described the incident as a serious violation of custodial security and a breach of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, the Service Standing Orders and other operational regulations.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations established that the condemned inmate was unlawfully in possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media and conduct the live broadcast while in lawful custody.
The Service said the device has since been recovered during a search operation and secured as evidence for further investigation.
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As part of immediate corrective measures, the Controller-General ordered the removal of the Officer-in-Charge of the custodial centre alongside two other principal officers pending the outcome of the investigation.
The NCoS explained that the action was necessary to ensure a transparent, impartial and unhindered investigation into the circumstances surrounding the security breach.
It disclosed that preliminary findings had revealed security lapses that may have facilitated the incident, adding that investigations were ongoing to determine whether any correctional officers, inmates or external collaborators aided the breach.
The Service warned that anyone found culpable through negligence, complicity or deliberate misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary and administrative sanctions in line with extant regulations.
The Correctional Service also stated that the incident has reinforced the need for the full implementation of ongoing security reforms initiated by the Controller-General since assuming office. The reforms are aimed at eliminating security vulnerabilities and preventing prohibited items from entering custodial centres nationwide.
The Service noted that compliance with the reforms has now been intensified across all commands and custodial facilities.
While appreciating members of the public and the media for drawing attention to the incident, the NCoS urged Nigerians to avoid speculation as investigations continue.
It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safe, secure and humane custody of inmates through continuous institutional reforms, professionalism and accountability.
By PRNigeria
