NCoS removes Ibara prison chief, two officers over inmates tiktok live video

~By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has removed the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and two other principal officers after a death-row inmate was caught using a prohibited mobile phone to stream live on TikTok from custody.

The Service also recovered the mobile phone used by the inmate, transferred him to another custodial facility under enhanced security and launched a wider investigation into the security breach, which has sparked public outrage.

The measures were announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections J.N. Osuji, on behalf of the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.

According to the statement, preliminary investigations confirmed that the inmate unlawfully possessed the phone and used it to access social media while in custody, in violation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the Service Standing Orders and other extant regulations.

The Service said the recovered phone had been secured as an exhibit, while investigations had uncovered security lapses that may have aided the breach.

It added that the removal of the Officer-in-Charge and two other principal officers was an administrative measure to ensure a transparent, impartial and unhindered investigation, stressing that the action was without prejudice to the final outcome of the probe.

The NCoS further disclosed that investigations were continuing to determine whether any correctional personnel, inmates or external collaborators facilitated the smuggling of the prohibited device into the facility.

It warned that anyone found culpable through negligence, complicity or direct involvement would face disciplinary and administrative sanctions in accordance with the law.

The Service said the incident had further underscored the need to strengthen ongoing reforms aimed at eliminating security vulnerabilities and preventing the entry of prohibited items into custodial centres nationwide.

Commending members of the public and the media for drawing attention to the incident, the NCoS urged Nigerians to refrain from speculation while investigations continue.

“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,” the statement said.