NCoS removes prison officials after death row inmate goes live on TikTok from custody
Nigerian Correctional Service Removes Officials Following Security Breach
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, along with two senior officers, in response to a significant security breach involving a death row inmate.
Elijah Oyebode, sentenced to death by hanging in 2019 for the murder of Rofiat Adebisi, a final-year student at Osun State University, allegedly conducted live sessions on TikTok while incarcerated. Court records indicate that Oyebode provided inconsistent statements regarding the crime before ultimately denying his involvement during trial. However, the court found him guilty, relying on medical evidence and other materials presented in the case.
Reports suggest that despite being on death row, Oyebode maintained an active presence on TikTok, where one of his accounts reportedly achieved Level 20 gifting status, allowing him to receive monetary gifts during livestreams. He was also allegedly linked to a separate account that impersonated a well-known content creator and activist.
In a statement issued Thursday, NCoS Public Relations Officer Chief Superintendent of Corrections JN Osuji characterized the incident as a serious violation of custodial regulations and prison security protocols. Preliminary investigations revealed that Oyebode unlawfully possessed a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media while in custody.
“The device has been recovered and secured as an exhibit for further investigation,” the statement noted.
NCoS confirmed that Oyebode has been transferred to another custodial facility and placed under enhanced security measures while investigations continue. As a result of the breach, the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibara Medium Custodial Centre and the two other principal officers have been removed from their positions pending the outcome of the ongoing inquiry.
