Nigeria’s minister of interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Monday ordered a probe into the prison break at the federal correctional centre in Koton Karfe area of Kogi state, at least 12 inmates escaped.
According to a statement issued on Monday, Abubakar Umar, the service public relations officer (SPRO), said the NCoS launched a manhunt for the escapees immediately after the incident.
He said personnel were also deployed to secure the facility, restore order, and initiate a manhunt for the escapees.
“As of this moment, five of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates and bring them to justice,” the statement reads.
“The NCoS acting controller-general has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We urge 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 inmates.
“Citizens are also encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.”
This development is coming after the interior minister asked Sylvester Ndidi, the acting controller general of the Nigerian Correctional Service, to visit the Kogi facility, assess the situation, and conduct a comprehensive audit.
“We are on top of the situation. Our men are on ground in Kogi, and I have ordered a comprehensive audit of the situation,” he added.
Usman Ododo, governor of Kogi, has also directed the state’s security adviser to “collaborate with the federal correctional centre and other security agencies to prevent future breaches”.
He asked residents to remain calm, adding that security agencies are in control of the situation.
