NCoS launches probe after death row inmate’s viral TikTok live stream + Video

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has launched a probe and removed the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State after Elijah Oyebode, a death row inmate convicted of murder, went viral hosting TikTok livestreams and receiving financial gifts from custody.

Two other principal senior officers of the correctional service were also removed to ensure an impartial investigation.

The incident, which quickly gained traction across social media, has triggered widespread public outrage and renewed concerns over security in Nigeria’s correctional facilities.

Reacting in a statement issued on Thursday, the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, described the incident as a grave violation of custodial regulations and ordered sweeping administrative and investigative measures to determine how the condemned inmate gained access to a prohibited mobile phone.

Preliminary investigations, according to the statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, CSC Jane Osuji, confirmed that the inmate unlawfully possessed the phone, which was used to access social media while in lawful custody.

The Service said the phone has since been recovered following a search operation and secured as an exhibit for further investigation, while the inmate has been transferred to another facility where he is being held under enhanced security pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

It added that the probe had also identified security gaps that may have contributed to the breach.

Osuji said the removal of the officers was without prejudice to the final outcome of the investigation and was intended to demonstrate the Service’s commitment to accountability and institutional integrity.

The Service used the opportunity to highlight ongoing security reforms embarked upon by the Controller General since his assumption of office, aimed at eliminating security vulnerabilities and preventing the introduction of prohibited items into custodial centres, noting that the incident had reinforced the need for their full implementation.

“The preliminary findings from this incident has further reinforced the need for these reforms and has directed their full implementation and intensified compliance across all Commands and Custodial Centres,” the statement said.

While the inmate’s culpability has been established, the NCoS said investigations were ongoing into the possible involvement, negligence or complicity of any officer, inmate or external collaborator connected to the breach.

“The Service wishes to assure Nigerians that anyone found to have facilitated, aided, condoned or failed in their responsibilities in connection with this incident will face appropriate disciplinary and administrative sanctions in accordance with extant regulations,” the statement said.

The Service commended the vigilance of members of the public and the media in bringing the matter to national attention, while appealing against speculation as 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.

𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖/𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕧𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖