The Ogun State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service has arrested a woman, Mrs Iyabo Sowunmi, for allegedly attempting to smuggle suspected illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Ibara, Abeokuta, for her son on death row.
The command’s spokesperson, Olayinka Odukoya, disclosed the arrest in a statement on Monday.
Odukoya said Sowunmi was apprehended at about 1:33 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, during routine screening at the facility’s main entrance.
According to him, officers discovered a suspicious substance believed to be “Colos”, a psychoactive synthetic drug, concealed inside a sachet of a popular beverage powder.
The package was allegedly intended for her son, Dare Sowunmi, an inmate currently on death row at the facility.
“At approximately 1:33 PM on Friday, August 28, 2026, routine screening procedures at the facility’s main entry point led to the detection of suspicious substances, believed to be the psychoactive synthetic drug commonly known as ‘Colos,’ concealed within a sachet of a popular beverage powder,” Odukoya said.
“The suspect was attempting to deliver the package to an inmate, Dare Sowunmi, who is currently on death row.”
He said officers immediately detained Sowunmi following the discovery.
The suspect has since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“Following the interception, officers immediately detained Mrs Sowunmi. In accordance with inter-agency operational protocols, she has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for comprehensive investigation and prosecution,” Odukoya added.
Reacting to the incident, Controller of Corrections, Ogun State Command, Abioye Adesina, commended officers at the facility for their vigilance.
Adesina said the service maintained zero tolerance for drug trafficking and attempts to introduce contraband into custodial facilities.
“Our custodial facilities exist to ensure public safety, reformation, and rehabilitation. We maintain an absolute zero-tolerance policy for drug trafficking or any illegal acts designed to compromise security,” he said.
“Attempts to introduce contraband into our facilities will be met with swift legal action.”
The command also warned members of the public against attempting to compromise security at custodial centres, saying offenders would face the full weight of the law.
