How Criminal Networks Operate From Inside Nigerian Prisons

A Vanguard investigation has revealed how some inmates in Nigerian custodial centres allegedly continue to coordinate criminal activities from behind bars, including fraud, extortion, robbery and kidnapping. In one recent case, a death threat sent to Benin City resident Odion Akagbosu was traced by police to an inmate at Oko Correctional Centre.

The report found similar allegations involving facilities in Kirikiri, Kuje and Warri. Authorities have also uncovered cases involving fake bank alerts, internet fraud and alleged coordination of crimes outside prison. On May 4, 2026, the Federal Government announced sanctions against 147 Nigerian Correctional Service officers over contraband-related offences and ordered the destruction of 1,167 confiscated mobile phones.

Several previous cases have highlighted alleged insider involvement. At Kirikiri, convicted fraudster Hope Aroke was accused by the EFCC of continuing cybercrime activities while serving a 24-year sentence, while another inmate, Ikechukwu Ogbu, was convicted after allegedly defrauding a bank manager of ₦12.3 million from prison. The report also revisited allegations surrounding inmates at Warri and an earlier fraud case involving Fred Ajudua and former Army Chief Lt. Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi.

Authorities say they are tightening measures against prison-based criminal networks. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has warned that correctional officers who assist criminal activities will face severe sanctions, while Controller-General of Corrections Sylvester Nwakuche said inmates and outside collaborators involved in contraband would be prosecuted. Security experts called for stronger surveillance, biometric systems, intelligence sharing and tougher action against compromised officials.