In a statement issued by the Service's Public Relations Officer, CSC Jane Osuji, the NCoS said the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, ordered the immediate removal of the affected officers to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation into the security breach.
The Service described the incident as a serious violation of custodial security, the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the Service Standing Orders and other regulations governing prison operations.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations confirmed that the inmate was in unlawful possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media while in custody.
"Preliminary findings confirmed that the inmate was in unlawful possession of a prohibited mobile phone, which he used to access social media while in lawful custody."
The NCoS said the phone has been recovered during a search operation and secured as evidence, while the inmate has been transferred to another custodial facility under enhanced security pending the conclusion of investigations.
The Service also disclosed that preliminary findings exposed security lapses that may have contributed to the breach.
It stressed that the removal of the officers does not amount to a finding of guilt but is intended to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation and demonstrate the Service's commitment to accountability.
The NCoS noted that the incident has reinforced the need for the full implementation of ongoing security reforms introduced by the Controller General to prevent prohibited items from entering custodial centres.
While confirming that the inmate's culpability has been established, the Service said investigations are continuing to determine whether any officers, inmates or external collaborators facilitated the security breach.
It warned that anyone found to have aided, condoned or failed in their responsibilities would face disciplinary and administrative sanctions in line with existing regulations.
The Service also commended members of the public and the media for drawing attention to the incident and urged Nigerians to avoid speculation while investigations continue.
It warned that anyone found to have aided, condoned or failed in their responsibilities would face disciplinary and administrative sanctions in line with existing regulations.
The Service also commended members of the public and the media for drawing attention to the incident and urged Nigerians to avoid speculation while investigations continue.
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