State Government Calls for Urgent Probe into Security Lapse
In the early hours of Monday, twelve inmates escaped from the Federal Correctional Center in Kotonkarfe, Kogi State, in what is now being described as a highly concerning jailbreak.
The Kogi State Government has since confirmed the incident and assured residents that security agencies are working tirelessly to track down the escapees.
Government Reacts: “Jailbreak Raises Serious Concerns”
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, issued a statement acknowledging the gravity of the situation and commending the swift response of security operatives.
“This incident is unfortunate, and we are taking decisive steps to prevent any future occurrence,” Fanwo stated.
He further revealed that the circumstances surrounding the escape remain suspicious, particularly the theory that inmates managed to escape through the tower without causing structural damage.
“This raises serious concerns and calls for a thorough investigation to determine exactly how the escape happened, arrest the fleeing inmates, and identify possible saboteurs within the system,” he added.
Governor Orders Investigation, Strengthens Security Measures
Following the incident, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has ordered an immediate investigation into the jailbreak.
The Governor has also directed the State Security Adviser to collaborate with the Federal Correctional Center and other security agencies to prevent future security breaches.
“Governor Ododo has tasked security agencies with uncovering the full details of this escape. He is committed to ensuring such incidents do not happen again,” Fanwo assured.
Security Agencies Mobilized to Track Fleeing Inmates
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the escaped prisoners, with security operatives on high alert across Kogi State and surrounding regions.
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting federal security agencies with:
✅ Logistics support for search operations
✅ Deployment of additional security personnel
✅ Strengthening intelligence-sharing frameworks
“The safety of our citizens remains our top priority. The State Government will continue to work closely with security agencies to maintain law and order,” Fanwo emphasized.
Residents Advised to Stay Vigilant
While investigations continue, the state government has assured the public that the situation is under control.
“There is no cause for panic. We encourage citizens to go about their daily activities as normal, knowing that the security of lives and property remains our top priority,” Fanwo added.
However, residents have been advised to report any suspicious movements to authorities as efforts to recapture the fugitives intensify.
Read also: “I’ll Speak When I Have Something to Say” – Soyinka Responds to Calls for Tinubu Govt Assessment
A Pattern of Security Breaches?
This jailbreak has sparked concerns about the security of correctional facilities in Nigeria, as similar incidents have been recorded in the past.
📌 In 2019, a similar jailbreak occurred at the Kotonkarfe Correctional Facility, with multiple inmates escaping.
📌 In 2021, the Kuje prison attack in Abuja led to the escape of over 400 inmates, some of whom were later linked to terrorist organizations.
📌 In 2022, gunmen stormed a correctional facility in Oyo State, leading to a mass escape.
With repeated jailbreaks in Nigeria, experts are calling for:
✔️ Better surveillance technology in prisons
✔️ Enhanced vetting of prison personnel
✔️ Stronger intelligence-sharing among security agencies
What Happens Next?
🔹 Security forces are actively searching for the escapees.
🔹 Investigations are underway to determine if there was internal sabotage.
🔹 The public is urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.
With the government vowing to prevent a recurrence, Nigerians will be watching closely to see if this commitment translates into real action.
