Recidivism remains a persistent challenge within the Nigerian correctional system and poses serious implications for public safety, social stability, and national development. Despite the stated rehabilitative mandate of Nigerian prisons, a significant number of released inmates relapse into criminal behaviour and return to custody. This study examined the factors influencing recidivism among inmates in Enugu Prison, Nigeria, from the perspectives of recidivist offenders themselves. Primarily guided by the Rehabilitation Theory, the study adopted a qualitative case study design. Purposive sampling was used to select twelve recidivist inmates who had previously been incarcerated and re-admitted into the prison system. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted within the prison facility. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using content and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that a combination of socio-demographic, institutional, and psychosocial factors influenced recidivism among inmates. The study concludes that recidivism in Enugu Prison is largely a consequence of systemic rehabilitation failures and adverse post-release social conditions. It recommends the strengthening of rehabilitation programmes, the introduction of structured aftercare and reintegration services, and community-based interventions aimed at reducing stigma and supporting ex-convicts’ reintegration into society.