Seven inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, after heavy rainfall led to the collapse of its ageing perimeter wall. Prison officials have launched an extensive manhunt to recapture the fugitives.
The incident occurred around 2:00 am on Tuesday following intense overnight rainfall. Officials said the storm weakened the facility’s old perimeter wall, causing it to collapse and allowing the inmates to flee.
According to eyewitnesses, the affected section of the wall had already shown signs of structural wear before the rainfall exacerbated the damage. Security personnel were alerted shortly after the breach, but the inmates had already disappeared into the surrounding areas.
Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesman, Umar Abubakar, confirmed the escape in a statement. He assured the public that immediate steps had been taken to locate and return the missing prisoners.
Authorities Launch Manhunt
The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape. Officials are collaborating with multiple security agencies and local vigilante groups to track down the escapees.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service has launched an expansive manhunt following the rainfall that breached the security of its facility at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Ilesa, Osun State,” Abubakar’s statement read.
Security teams are actively combing the nearby villages, bushlands, and transport hubs where the fugitives might seek refuge or assistance. Patrol teams and drone surveillance have also been deployed to aid in the search.
Public Urged to Assist
The NCoS has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activities. Authorities suspect that the escapees may attempt to relocate to other towns or use informal routes to evade capture.
“The service is working closely with sister security agencies as well as community leaders to recapture the escapees and bring them back to custody,” Abubakar stated.
Concerned citizens can contact security agencies or provide relevant information via these emergency hotlines: 07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.
Local community leaders have also been briefed on the situation and asked to mobilize members to assist law enforcement efforts.
The incident is a reminder of the decaying state of correctional facilities nationwide. Many security experts have previously warned that ageing infrastructure in custodial centres poses a risk of breaches and inmate escapes.
Prison officials say the collapsed perimeter wall was scheduled for maintenance, but funding constraints delayed repair efforts.
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