A visitor to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) facility in Agodi, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, has been arrested for attempting to smuggle hard drugs into the medium-security custodial centre.
The suspect was apprehended on Wednesday during routine security checks of visitors and their belongings at the facility entrance. Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Command of NCS, O.O. Anjorin, confirmed the incident to journalists on Thursday, noting that the drugs were cleverly concealed in food.
According to Anjorin, the suspect, who claimed to be visiting an inmate, had concealed substances suspected to be Colorado and hemp within a portion of cooked rice. “At approximately 2:20 p.m. on Wednesday, 25th February 2026, a male visitor was apprehended during routine security checks of visitors and their belongings at the facility entrance. The suspect was found to have concealed substances suspected to be Colorado and hemp within a portion of cooked rice,” he said.
Following the arrest, the suspect was handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution. Anjorin added that appropriate legal action would be taken against the individual in line with Nigerian law.
The handover of the suspect was carried out by the Officer-in-Charge of the Ibadan Correctional Centre, Assistant Controller of Corrections, Sunday Adekunmbi. The incident was described as a demonstration of the correctional staff’s vigilance and professionalism.
In a statement, the Controller of Corrections for Oyo State, Osogun Olusegun, commended the officers for their alertness and reinforced the service’s commitment to maintaining the security, safety, and integrity of all custodial centres in the state. “The Nigerian Correctional Service will not compromise on security measures. Our officers remain dedicated to ensuring that all visitors comply with regulations to protect inmates and staff,” he said.
NCS authorities have continued to implement rigorous screening procedures, including the use of scanners, manual inspections, and strict visitor protocols, to prevent contraband from entering prisons.
The command emphasised zero tolerance for illegal substances within its facilities. Visitors, contractors, and staff are regularly reminded of the legal consequences of introducing prohibited items.
“We will continue to enforce our rules strictly and work in collaboration with law enforcement agencies such as the NDLEA to curb drug trafficking within correctional centres,” Anjorin stated.
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