The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has launched a manhunt for seven inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, following a structural breach caused by heavy rainfall.
According to the NCoS, the incident occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday after a section of the facility’s old perimeter wall collapsed during an overnight storm. The collapse created a gap through which the inmates made their escape.
Spokesperson for the Service, Umar Abubakar, confirmed the incident in a statement and said that a coordinated search operation involving correctional officers, the police, and other security agencies is underway to recapture the fugitives.
“The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has directed the immediate deployment of additional security personnel and ordered a thorough investigation into the structural integrity of the facility and the circumstances surrounding the escape,” the statement said.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or sightings that may aid in the recapture of the escapees.
This is not the first time flooding or weather-related events have compromised prison infrastructure in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing concerns about the aging and fragile state of many custodial facilities across the country.
Meanwhile, officials have assured that security has been restored at the centre and that efforts are being made to prevent future occurrences.
