The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has addressed the tense standoff in Abuja that unfolded after its officers attempted to transfer Tracynither Nicholas Ohiri to the Keffi Correctional Centre, following a valid court order.Nigerian Events Calendar
The drama began shortly after Ohiri was granted bail at the Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 2. Armed police reportedly attempted to rearrest her, prompting public uproar and intervention by civil society actors.
In a statement by NCoS Public Relations Officer JN Osuji, the Service denied allegations that detention documents were forged or manipulated, describing such claims as “false and misleading.” According to the statement, Ohiri was lawfully remanded to Keffi Correctional Centre under Case No. CR/12/2026 by Magistrate Court 7, Wuse Zone 2, on February 26, 2026.
“The Court ordered that the defendant be detained pending the perfection of her bail conditions. In compliance with this order, officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service took steps to convey her to custody in Keffi,” the statement said.Nigerian Events Calendar
The NCoS said its officers were blocked by a group of individuals—including self-identified civil society actors—who refused to allow the transfer. Despite repeated explanations, the obstruction continued, forcing officers to temporarily place Ohiri in a nearby police station for her safety.
The following day, February 27, officers resumed efforts to move her to Keffi, but the same group reportedly interfered again. Ohiri, claiming to be ill, was taken to a hospital, where the situation escalated further as the crowd grew in size.
“Senior officers and a team of doctors dispatched from Service Headquarters were subjected to verbal abuse, harassment, and ridicule while attempting to perform their duties. This constitutes disobedience to lawful orders and obstruction of justice,” the NCoS stated.
The Service firmly rejected claims that the detention documents were irregular or forged. “The ‘Warrant of Commitment to Prison on Remand’ and the ‘Order to Reproduce Prisoner’ were duly issued and signed by a competent court. All legal and administrative procedures were followed,” it said.
The NCoS clarified that it does not grant bail—that authority rests solely with the courts. Correctional officers are legally required to execute court orders, including detention pending bail perfection. The Service also accused the interfering group of emotional blackmail and delay tactics, but emphasized that officers acted with restraint, prioritizing public safety and the defendant’s welfare.
According to the NCoS, the situation is now under control, and appropriate legal measures are being taken. “No individual or group has the authority to override a valid court order or dictate custodial procedures. Obstructing officers from executing lawful orders undermines the rule of law and public security,” the Service said.
The controversy originally arose after Ohiri, detained over allegations of defamation against Minister of Works David Umahi, was granted bail of N1 million with two sureties by Magistrate Ibraheem Ope. Despite her defense team fulfilling the bail conditions, police reportedly attempted her rearrest, leading to public protests.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, one of her sureties, contacted the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, urging caution and adherence to court directives.
