A late-night downpour in Osun State on Tuesday triggered a prison break at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, allowing seven inmates to escape after the facility’s aging perimeter wall gave way.
The Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, confirmed the incident, which occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday. In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, the agency attributed the jailbreak to structural failure caused by the storm.
“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,” the statement read.
Authorities have intensified efforts to recapture the fugitives, working closely with other security agencies and local community leaders.
Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident to determine the root cause and prevent future occurrences.
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“This is a serious security breach. We are leaving no stone unturned in the bid to recapture the escapees and understand how the structural collapse occurred,” Nwakuche said.
NCoS is also appealing to the public to report any suspicious activity or information that may aid in locating the escapees. Citizens can contact security services via the following emergency lines: 07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.
The incident has renewed concerns over the deteriorating state of correctional infrastructure across the country, with several jailbreaks in recent years attributed to weak facilities and insufficient funding.
The Osun escape is the latest reminder of Nigeria’s ongoing prison system challenges, which critics say require urgent reforms, improved surveillance, and infrastructure upgrades.
FrankTalk
