By SUNTV Global Channel
August 6, 2026
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has removed the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, along with two other senior officers, following the discovery that a death row inmate conducted a live broadcast on TikTok from inside the correctional facility.
The disciplinary action was announced by the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, after preliminary investigations confirmed that the inmate illegally possessed a prohibited mobile phone, which was used to access social media while in custody.
According to the NCoS, the incident represents a serious breach of custodial security and a violation of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, as well as existing operational regulations.
Authorities said the mobile phone has been recovered and secured as evidence, while the inmate has been transferred to another correctional facility under tighter security pending the conclusion of investigations.
The Service disclosed that initial findings also revealed security lapses that may have contributed to the breach. Consequently, the Officer-in-Charge and two principal officers have been relieved of their duties to allow for a transparent and impartial investigation.
The NCoS stressed that the administrative action does not amount to a final determination of guilt, adding that investigations are continuing into the possible involvement, negligence, or complicity of correctional personnel, inmates, or external collaborators.
The Service warned that anyone found responsible for facilitating the security breach would face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the law.
The controversy followed widespread public outrage after reports emerged that death row inmate Elijah Oyebode allegedly hosted TikTok Live sessions from prison, received virtual gifts from followers, placed sports bets, and claimed that thousands of mobile phones were circulating within the custodial centre.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over security and oversight within Nigeria’s correctional facilities, with many Nigerians calling for stricter enforcement of prison regulations to prevent similar breaches in the future.
The Nigerian Correctional Service reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security across custodial centres nationwide and assured the public that comprehensive reforms are being intensified to eliminate security vulnerabilities and prevent prohibited items from entering correctional facilities.
