The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has refuted media reports alleging that Ayomide Adeleye, an Awaiting Trial Person (ATP), is no longer in custody.
The Service confirmed that Adeleye, aged 23, remains detained at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kirikiri, Lagos, as ordered by the court.
According to a statement issued by Umar Abubakar, Deputy Controller of Corrections and the Public Relations Officer, Adeleye (Custody Number: S-1995/24) was remanded on September 26, 2024, by Magistrate Court 13A, Ogba, Lagos, for alleged involvement in kidnapping and murder.
The court reiterated the remand order during a subsequent hearing on December 16, 2024, pending advice from the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP).
The NCoS clarified that the false reports may have arisen from confusion with a separate case involving an inmate of a similar name.
The unrelated individual was admitted to the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kirikiri on March 6, 2024, for theft and was discharged on April 4, 2024, by court order.
In its statement, the NCoS called on media organizations to verify information from appropriate channels before publication to prevent public misinformation.
The Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, assured the public of the Service’s commitment to maintaining the safe and humane custody of all detainees, emphasizing its efforts toward their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The NCoS urged the public to disregard the misleading reports and reaffirmed its dedication to upholding its mandate.
For further clarification, members of the media and the public are encouraged to reach out to the Public Relations Office of the Nigerian Correctional Service.