Nigerian Correctional Service Denies Reports of Missing Inmate

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has vehemently denied media reports claiming the disappearance of Ayomide Adeleye, an awaiting trial inmate.

In a statement released Monday by Deputy Controller of Corrections Abubakar Umar, the NCoS confirmed that Adeleye (Custody Number: S-1995/24), aged 23, remains safely detained at the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Lagos.

Adeleye was remanded at the MSCC on September 26th, 2024, by Magistrate Court 13A, Ogba, Lagos, on charges of kidnapping and murder.

He was last produced in court on December 16th, 2024, where the presiding magistrate ordered his continued detention pending advice from the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP).

The NCoS clarified that a separate inmate with a similar name was detained at the Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre for theft between March 6th and April 4th, 2024, before being discharged by court order.

This, the statement explained, is the likely source of the confusion leading to the false reports.

Umar strongly criticised the media outlets that published the inaccurate information, accusing them of “mischievous reporting” and a lack of due diligence.

He urged reporters to verify information with appropriate sources before publication to avoid spreading falsehoods.

The NCoS statement concluded with Acting Controller General of Corrections Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche reassuring the public of the service’s commitment to the safe and humane custody, rehabilitation, and resettlement of all legally interned individuals. The service called on the public to disregard the misleading reports.