The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed that Ayomide Adeleye is currently in its custody, following an order from a Lagos Magistrate Court.
In a statement released on Monday, the NCoS denied circulating reports that claimed the inmate, identified by custodial number S-1995/24, was not held at its facility.
NCoS Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, dismissed these reports as misleading, emphasizing that Adeleye, a 23-year-old awaiting trial, was remanded at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kirikiri, Lagos.
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Umar explained that the inmate was remanded on 26 September 2024 by Magistrate Court 13A in Ogba, Lagos, on charges of kidnapping and murder. He was later presented before the same court on 16 December 2024.
The Service reiterated its commitment to transparency and adherence to judicial orders in managing inmates.
He clarified: “On the date he was produced in court, the presiding magistrate ordered that he remain in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending advice from the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP).”
The NCoS further emphasized that the reports about Adeleye’s whereabouts were false, stating: “The Service categorically affirms that the inmate is still in custody at MSCC Kirikiri, Lagos, as ordered by the court, contrary to the misleading claims.”
Additionally, Umar clarified the confusion about a different inmate with a similar name: “There was another inmate, with a similar name, admitted to the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Lagos, on 6 March 2024, following a warrant from Magistrate Court 15A, Ogba, Lagos, for theft. This inmate was discharged on 4 April 2024, by court order.”
He further criticized the false reporting, stating, “It is evident that the report was designed to mislead the public and tarnish the image of the Service. We urge media personnel to verify their information from reliable sources before publication to avoid spreading falsehoods.”
The NCoS concluded by urging the public to disregard the erroneous report, which they attributed to “armchair reporters” who failed to confirm details before publication.
Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche MFR, mni, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, assured the public that the Service remains committed to the safe and humane custody of all legally interned individuals, ensuring their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.
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