Twelve inmates managed to escape in a daring jailbreak at the Federal Correctional Centre in Kotonkarfe, Kogi State, in the early hours of Monday morning.
Kogi State Information Commissioner, Kingsley Fanwo, condemned the incident, calling it “unfortunate,” and assured the public that the state government, in partnership with security agencies, would take swift action to prevent such incidents in the future.
Fanwo revealed that law enforcement had already recaptured one of the escapees and expressed concern over the manner in which the breakout occurred. “The theory that the inmates managed to escape through the tower without causing any structural damage raises serious questions,” he stated. This revelation has prompted authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation to uncover the full details of the escape, apprehend the remaining fugitives, and identify potential internal accomplices who may have aided the escape.
Governor Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to implement stronger measures to prevent further breaches of this nature, underscoring the importance of maintaining tight security within correctional facilities.
Additionally, Fanwo urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals in their communities. He issued a stern warning, stating that anyone found harboring an escaped inmate would face legal consequences. “There is no reason for panic. We encourage citizens to go about their daily activities as usual, assured that the security of lives and property remains our top priority,” he reassured the public.
This incident has sparked widespread concerns about the security protocols at the prison and will likely lead to greater scrutiny of correctional facility management in the region.
