NCoS Removes Three Ibara Prison Officials After Death-Row Inmate Goes Live on TikTok
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has removed the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, alongside two other Principal Officers, following a major security breach involving a death-row inmate who reportedly appeared in a live TikTok broadcast from inside the facility.
The disciplinary action came after the incident generated public concern over how an inmate awaiting execution could gain access to a prohibited mobile phone and use it to access social media while in custody.
Global Mirror News gathered that the NCoS announced the development on Thursday, August 6, 2026, in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections J.N. Osuji, on behalf of the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.
The Service described the incident as a serious breach of custodial security, saying it violated provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the Service Standing Orders and other regulations governing operations in custodial centres.
Death-row inmate used prohibited phone
According to the NCoS, preliminary findings established that the inmate was unlawfully in possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media and conduct a live broadcast while in lawful custody.
The mobile device has since been recovered during a search operation and secured as an exhibit as investigations continue.
The inmate was also transferred from the Ibara facility to another custodial centre, where he is being held under enhanced security pending the conclusion of the investigation.
The development has raised questions about security procedures at custodial centres, particularly the effectiveness of measures designed to prevent inmates from obtaining prohibited items.
Three officials removed pending investigation
In response to the incident, the Controller-General ordered the immediate removal of the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre and two other principal officers.
The NCoS stressed that the administrative action should not be interpreted as a final determination of guilt against the affected officers.
Rather, the officials were removed from their positions to allow investigators to conduct a transparent, impartial and unhindered probe into the circumstances surrounding the security breach.
The Service is also investigating whether any officer, inmate or external collaborator may have facilitated, aided, condoned or otherwise contributed to the breach.
NCoS promises tougher action
The Controller-General has warned that anyone found to have played a role in the incident, including through negligence or failure to perform assigned responsibilities, will face appropriate disciplinary and administrative sanctions in line with existing regulations.
The Service said the incident had further highlighted the need to strengthen ongoing security reforms aimed at eliminating vulnerabilities and preventing prohibited items from entering custodial facilities.
The NCoS said it had directed the full implementation of those reforms and intensified compliance across its commands and custodial centres.
The Service further appealed to members of the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues, assuring Nigerians that it remains committed to the safe, secure and humane custody of persons legally committed to its care.
It also acknowledged the role of members of the public and the media in bringing the matter to national attention.
The incident has consequently placed renewed attention on security and accountability within Nigeria’s correctional system, with the outcome of the ongoing investigation expected to determine whether further disciplinary measures will be imposed.
Global Mirror News will continue to monitor developments as the Nigerian Correctional Service concludes its investigation.
