March 24, (THEWILL) – At least twelve inmates escaped in an early morning jailbreak at the Federal Correctional Centre in Kotonkarfe, Kogi State, on Monday.
A statement by Kogi State Information Commissioner, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the incident as “unfortunate” and assured citizens that the government is taking decisive steps to prevent a recurrence.
“Kogi State Government has vowed to work with security agencies to uncover the circumstances surrounding an early morning jailbreak at the Federal Correctional Centre in Kotonkarfe, where 12 inmates escaped.
“Officials have confirmed that one of the escapees has already been rearrested and is providing valuable information to law enforcement.
“The theory that the inmates escaped through the tower without causing any structural damage raises serious concerns. This calls for a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the escape, arrest the fleeing inmates, and identify possible saboteurs within the system”, the statement read.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the State Security Adviser to collaborate with the Federal Correctional Centre and other security agencies to ensure such security breaches do not happen again. The state government has also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting federal security agencies through logistics and other necessary resources to enhance their operational effectiveness.
Fanwo commended the swift response of security agencies in handling the situation and urged residents to remain vigilant.
“We call on the public to report any suspicious individuals in their communities. Anyone found harbouring an escaped inmate will be held accountable”, he warned.
While investigations continue, the government has assured residents that the situation is under control.
“There is no cause for panic. We encourage citizens to go about their daily activities as normal, knowing that the security of lives and property remains our top priority.
“Security agencies are intensifying efforts to track down the remaining escapees, and authorities have promised to provide updates as the situation unfolds”, Fanwo added.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Correctional Service has confirmed that three of the 12 inmates, who escaped during a jailbreak have been re-arrested.
The Acting Controller General of the Service, Sly Nwakuche, said one of the officers of the correctional service was killed by the escaped prison inmates.
Nwakuche urged the public to provide security agencies with the necessary information that will lead to the arrest of all the prison inmates, who escaped from custody.
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