The Federal Government has initiated an intensive manhunt for seven inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, in the early hours of Tuesday.
The escape occurred around 02:00a.m. following a heavy downpour that compromised the prison's security.
Abubakar Umar, Spokesperson for the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), confirmed the incident and described it as a "force majeure."
In response, the Comptroller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the breach and escape.
“The service is working closely with sister security agencies and community leaders to recapture the escapees and bring them back to custody.”
“However, the service solicits the cooperation and support of the public in providing information that may lead to the recapture of the fleeing inmates.”
He listed the NCoS response desk lines as 07087086005, 09060004598, and 08075050006.