Twelve inmates escaped from the Federal Correctional Centre in Kotonkarfe, Kogi State, Nigeria in the early hours of Monday, the state’s Information Commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, has confirmed.
Describing the incident as “unfortunate,” Fanwo assured the public that security agencies are working to prevent a recurrence. He revealed that one of the escaped inmates has already been re-arrested.
“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,” Fanwo stated.
Governor Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to prevent future security breaches. The commissioner also urged residents to report any suspicious individuals, warning that anyone found harboring an escaped inmate would face consequences.
“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,” Fanwo added.
Security agencies have launched a manhunt for the remaining escapees as investigations into the jailbreak continue.
