Mother Arrested for Smuggling Drugs to Son on Death Row in Ogun Prison

Iyabo Sowunmi has been arrested by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Ogun State for allegedly attempting to smuggle illicit drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ibara, Abeokuta, for her son, Dare Sowunmi, who is on death row.

The incident occurred around 1:33 PM on Friday, August 28, 2026, during routine security screening at the facility's entrance. 

Olayinka Odukoya, the command’s spokesperson, revealed that the substance, suspected to be “Colos,” a psychoactive synthetic drug, was concealed in a sachet of a popular beverage powder.

Odukoya stated that the package was intercepted before it could reach Dare Sowunmi. “The suspect was attempting to deliver the package to an inmate.

 Following the interception, officers detained Mrs. Sowunmi,” he said.

In line with inter-agency protocols, she has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and prosecution.

Controller of Corrections for Ogun State Command, Abioye Adesina, praised the security personnel for their vigilance and strict adherence to established protocols.

 He reiterated the command's zero-tolerance policy toward drug trafficking and other activities that could compromise security.

“Our facilities exist to ensure public safety, reformation, and rehabilitation. We will take swift legal action against any attempts to introduce contraband,” Adesina emphasized.

The command has urged the public to respect the integrity of custodial institutions, warning that those who attempt to undermine security will face the full weight of the law.