The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has commenced a full-scale investigation after a death row inmate conducted a TikTok prison livestream from the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, using an unauthorised mobile phone.
As part of immediate disciplinary measures, the Service has removed the Officer-in-Charge of the custodial centre and two other principal officers pending the outcome of the investigation.
In a statement issued by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Jane Osuji, the NCoS disclosed that the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, ordered the removal of the affected officers to ensure an impartial and transparent investigation. The Service described the viral TikTok prison livestream as a serious breach of custodial security and a violation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, Service Standing Orders and other operational regulations.
According to preliminary findings, the inmate was illegally in possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which was used to access social media while in lawful custody. Following a search operation, correctional officials recovered the device and secured it as evidence for ongoing investigations. The inmate has also been transferred to another custodial facility, where he is being held under enhanced security pending the conclusion of the probe.
The NCoS said initial investigations had uncovered security lapses that may have contributed to the incident. It explained that the temporary removal of the affected officers does not amount to a final determination of guilt but reflects the Service’s commitment to accountability and institutional integrity.
The correctional authority added that the incident has reinforced the need for ongoing security reforms introduced by the Controller General to eliminate vulnerabilities and prevent prohibited items from entering custodial centres nationwide.
Although the inmate’s unauthorised possession of the phone has been confirmed, the Service said investigations are continuing to determine whether any correctional officers, fellow inmates or external collaborators facilitated the security breach. The NCoS warned that anyone found to have aided, encouraged or failed in their responsibilities in relation to the incident would face appropriate disciplinary and administrative sanctions in line with existing regulations.
The Service also commended members of the public and the media for drawing attention to the incident while urging Nigerians to avoid speculation until investigations are concluded. It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining secure, safe and humane custody of inmates through strengthened security measures, professionalism and institutional reforms.
