Twelve inmates broke out of the Federal Correctional Centre in Kotonkarfe, Kogi State, early Monday morning.
Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, called the escape “unfortunate” and assured the public that the government is working closely with security agencies to prevent future incidents.
According to him, one of the escaped inmates has been recaptured by law enforcement agencies.
Fanwo raised concerns about reports that the prisoners escaped through a tower without damaging the structure.
He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to uncover how the jailbreak happened, track down the fugitives, and identify any insiders who may have aided the escape.
“The theory that the inmates escaped through the tower without causing any structural damage raises serious concerns.
“This calls for a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the escape, arrest the fleeing inmates, and identify possible saboteurs within the system,” Fanwo said.
Governor Usman Ododo has directed security agencies to strengthen measures to prevent similar breaches.
“We call on the public to report any suspicious individuals in their communities. Anyone found harbouring an escaped inmate will be held accountable,” Fanwo warned.
He reassured residents that there is no reason to panic and encouraged them to continue their daily activities, emphasizing that ensuring public safety remains the government’s top priority.
KanyiDaily had reported how the Department of State Services (DSS) killed a one-time jailbreaker and notorious gang leader, Kabir Bala, popularly known as “Okwo” in Ejule, Ofu LGA of Kogi State.