The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) has launched a probe into how a convicted armed robber, Haruna Ayo, managed to visit a passport office in Lagos under suspicious circumstances.
Shocking Transfer to Passport Office
Newsonspot gathered that sources told Saturday PUNCH that on Wednesday, May 19, 2025, warders from the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Apapa, transported Ayo to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) passport office at FESTAC Town. Ayo, who is serving a 21-year sentence (reduced from life), was scheduled for release in October 2025.
The incident raised alarms after the warder escorting Ayo reportedly became impatient while waiting at the immigration office and attempted to return him to custody prematurely. Immigration officers, sensing irregularities, detained both the convict and the warder and alerted higher authorities.
Suspicious Medical Excuse, Corrupt Network Uncovered
Multiple sources revealed that Ayo had been using medical appointments as a cover to process his passport and visa applications – an effort that allegedly began in 2024. The ruse continued unnoticed until new leadership took over the custodial centre following the high-profile Bobrisky scandal.
According to an insider:
“He claimed to have health issues requiring hospital visits. But it turned out he was using those trips to process travel documents. Even the hospital might be complicit.”
Further investigation exposed that Ayo had already undergone and passed three medical evaluations, clearing him for release, despite leveraging the ‘illness’ narrative.
Systemic Corruption and Officer Suspensions
Two correctional officers have since been suspended, with one identified as “Femi.” A source suggested deeper rot within the system:
“The real culprits are not being punished. Many people are involved.”
The NCS confirmed the suspension. National Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, said:
“The staff member suspected of this misconduct has been suspended. Investigations are ongoing to ensure a smooth and transparent process.”
He added that the current administration under President Bola Tinubu is committed to rewarding integrity and punishing misconduct:
“Any officer found guilty of sabotage or indiscipline will be removed.”
A Pattern of Abuse in Nigeria’s Prisons
This case adds to a string of embarrassing corruption scandals within the correctional service. In 2024, prison officials were accused of taking ₦35 million in bribes to grant special privileges to influencer Bobrisky during his sentence. In another incident that same year, an inmate was smuggled out of the Afikpo Custodial Centre in Ebonyi State for a romantic visit.
Growing Outrage and Calls for Reform
The passport scandal involving Haruna Ayo is causing unrest among both officials and the public, with many questioning how a convict nearing the end of his sentence could attempt to secure travel documents-possibly to escape justice.
The Punch
