An intense overnight rainfall on Tuesday morning caused the collapse of the old perimeter wall at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, allowing seven inmates to escape custody.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed that the breach occurred around 2 a.m. due to structural failure triggered by the storm.
NCoS spokesperson Umar Abubakar stated that the agency has launched a widespread manhunt to recapture the fugitives. “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,” he said.
Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances of the escape. “The service is working closely with sister security agencies as well as community leaders to recapture the escapees and bring them back to custody,” the statement added.
The public is urged to assist by providing any information that could aid in the recapture. Citizens can contact the nearest security agency or call the NCoS Response Desk at 07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nigeria’s correctional facilities, which have suffered from aging infrastructure and vulnerability to natural disasters. Similar breaches occurred last year in Maiduguri and Suleja, where floods and heavy rains led to mass escapes of inmates.
