DRAMA AS FEMALE INMATE ALLEGEDLY IMPREGNATED BY PRISON OFFICER GIVES BIRTH IN YOBE

Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Drama as female inmate allegedly impregnated by prison officer gives birth in Yobe

A female inmate at the Potiskum Correctional Centre in Yobe State, identified as Blessing Sunday, has given birth to a baby boy amid allegations that she was impregnated by a correctional officer assigned to the facility. The birth took place on Sunday, 29 March 2026, at the Potiskum Specialist Hospital, where she was provided medical care. Both the infant and his mother were reported to be in stable condition following the delivery.

The correctional officer alleged to be involved is Sani Saleh-Bodejo, who served as the yardmaster at the Potiskum Correctional Centre. Sources claim he engaged in a sexual relationship with Blessing Sunday, allegedly with the support of other staff members, raising serious concerns about custodial oversight and staff conduct within the facility.

This case has drawn widespread attention from human rights advocates and prison reform campaigners. They stress that any sexual relationship between custodial staff and inmates is strictly prohibited due to the inherent power imbalance and the inability of persons in custody to legally consent. Such relationships constitute abuse of authority and a violation of both institutional regulations and national law.

The Yobe State Government has previously acknowledged incidents of unprofessional conduct among officers at the Potiskum Correctional Centre, describing such behavior as a serious breach of trust. Senior officials reportedly moved some implicated officers to other postings, prompting criticism that accountability was not fully enforced. Investigations into these alleged incidents are ongoing.

Legal experts have highlighted that if the allegations are confirmed, the officer could face criminal charges including sexual exploitation and abuse of authority, in addition to administrative disciplinary actions. The case also underscores the need for stronger oversight mechanisms, improved training, and protective measures for female inmates, including separate units and strict enforcement of professional boundaries.

Human rights organisations have emphasised the importance of providing medical, psychological, and legal support to Blessing Sunday and her newborn, ensuring their safety and reintegration. They have called for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy and delivery to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident has sparked renewed debate over prison reform in Nigeria, highlighting systemic issues in custodial facilities, including inadequate supervision, vulnerabilities of female inmates, and the need for structural reforms that protect the dignity and safety of all detainees.

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