TDThe Nigerian correctional system has once again been thrust into the spotlight following a damning petition submitted by Mr. Raymond Ikenga to the National Security Adviser (NSA) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria against Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Rashid A. Ogundare.
The petition was copied to the Department of State Services (DSS), the Inspector General of Police, relevant committees of the National Assembly, and foreign bodies including American and Israeli authorities.
It called for the immediate suspension, arrest, and prosecution of DCC Ogundare.
Ogundare is the Officer-in-Charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja.
The allegations, if proven, paint a picture of systemic sabotage, corruption, and complicity in terrorism within one of Nigeria’s most sensitive detention facilities.
Alleged Terrorism Financing and Association with Proscribed Groups by Ogundare
The petition accuses DCC Ogundare of supplying flags and emblems to the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
Photographic evidence reportedly shows IMN flags mounted within sections of Kuje prison between March 1–5, 2026.
These items were allegedly delivered personally by Ogundare in exchange for cash.
Such actions, if true, amount to aiding and abetting terrorism within a federal facility.
Alleged Extortion and Contraband Trafficking
The petition further alleges that Ogundare has turned Kuje into a marketplace for contraband.
He is accused of extorting inmates and staff, smuggling electronic devices for cash payments, and allocating cells to inmates for ₦500,000 each.
Viral videos by inmate Linus Williams Ifejirika, popularly known as “BLord,” corroborate claims of contraband trafficking.
Witnesses are reportedly willing to testify, suggesting a pattern of extortion and profiteering under Ogundare’s watch.
Abuse of Office and Claims of Political Protection by Ogundare
Ogundare is accused of boasting about protection from the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and a Special Assistant who shares his surname.
He allegedly claims that the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service cannot remove him due to political connections.
Such assertions, if true, highlight a dangerous culture of impunity within the correctional system.
Alleged Trafficking of Drugs and Electronics
The petition alleges that Ogundare is the principal trafficker of illicit substances into Kuje, including tramadol, methamphetamine, cannabis, and cocaine.
He is also accused of personally carrying refrigerators and electronics into the facility for wealthy inmates.
This paints a disturbing picture of a prison chief enabling criminal enterprises rather than dismantling them.
Radicalization and Recruitment Concerns
Perhaps the most alarming allegation is that Kuje Custodial Centre has become a recruitment ground for Boko Haram and other terrorist groups under Ogundare’s leadership.
He is accused of supplying communication devices to terrorist inmates, enabling them to coordinate activities and radicalize others.
With approximately 300 terrorist suspects transferred to Kuje on June 11, 2026, the risks of such alleged misconduct are catastrophic.
The May 16 Raid Incident Led by Ogundare
The petition references a raid on May 16, 2026, during which sniffer dogs detected electronics, cash, and drugs.
Ogundare allegedly attempted to deflect attention by authoring a publication about a robbery involving luxury items.
The raid reportedly led to the confiscation of his personal handsets, further implicating him in contraband trafficking.
The Petition’s Demands
Mr. Ikenga’s petition calls for:
- Immediate suspension and arrest of DCC Ogundare.
- Discreet investigation and prosecution for felony and terrorism offences.
- Protection of patriotic inmates willing to testify.
- Urgent measures to halt recruitment and radicalization within Kuje.
- Relocation of the 300 terrorist inmates recently transferred.
- Verification of Ogundare’s confidential service file to uncover prior misconduct.
Ogundare: A National Security Flashpoint
The allegations against DCC Rashid A. Ogundare are grave, implicating him in terrorism financing, contraband trafficking, extortion, and radicalization.
If substantiated, they expose a dangerous breach in Nigeria’s national security architecture.
Kuje Custodial Centre, already infamous for past jailbreaks, now faces accusations of being a hub for terrorist recruitment under compromised leadership.
The petition underscores the urgency of decisive action.
Failure to act risks not only the integrity of Nigeria’s correctional system but also the safety of the nation at large.
This is not merely an internal disciplinary matter—it is a national security emergency.
