By Abimbola Ologun
The Federal Government has confirmed that five out of the twelve inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, during a jailbreak on Monday, March 24, 2025, have been recaptured.
Abubakar Umar, spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), reported that the jailbreak occurred early in the morning when some inmates in one section of the facility manipulated the padlocks, leading to their escape.
“Upon receiving reports of the attack, the Acting Comptroller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche MFR, in collaboration with heads of sister security agencies including the SSA to the Governor of Kogi State immediately mobilized to the facility, and personnel were deployed to secure the facility, restore order, and initiate a manhunt for the escapees,” Umar said.
“As of this moment, 5 of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates and bring them to justice,” he added.
The Acting Comptroller General of Corrections has initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the jailbreak. “Additionally, a security audit is being conducted across all correctional facilities nationwide to prevent future occurrences.”
The NCoS has urged the public to stay calm and assist in the recapture efforts. “The Service urges members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may assist in the recapture of those still at large. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.”
“The Service assures Nigerians that the safety of custodial centers remains a top priority, and measures are being reinforced to strengthen security across all facilities. The NCoS remains committed to ensuring that correctional facilities fulfill their mandate of safe custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates,” the statement concluded.
