By Sadeeq Kamsela, Abuja
A jailbreak occurred in the early hours of Monday at the Federal Correctional Centre in Koton Karfe, the headquarters of Kogi Local Government Area in Kogi State.
The exact number of escapees has not been officially confirmed, but government sources estimate that at least 12 inmates managed to flee, with the escape raising serious security concerns, as it happened without any external interference.
Unlike previous incidents, where armed groups launched coordinated attacks to free prisoners, this jailbreak appears to have been carried out from within. Reports indicate that the inmates escaped through the facility’s tower without damaging its structure, prompting suspicions of internal sabotage or severe lapses in security.
Residents reported hearing no gunfire or commotion, further fueling speculation that the breakout was carefully planned and possibly aided by insiders, although correctional officials have yet to provide any official explanation.
Confirming the incident, the Kogi State government has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into how the escape was orchestrated. State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, assured the public that authorities are working diligently to unravel the circumstances surrounding the jailbreak and ensure the escapees are recaptured.
He described the situation as deeply troubling, emphasizing that the theory of inmates escaping through the tower without any visible damage demands a full probe. He stressed the need to determine whether internal complicity played a role and to identify those responsible for any security failures.
In response to the escape, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has ordered an immediate security review of the correctional facility and directed the State Security Adviser to work closely with the Federal Correctional Centre and other security agencies to prevent future breaches.
The state government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting federal security efforts by providing additional logistical resources to strengthen prison security and law enforcement operations.
Security operatives have launched a manhunt for the escapees, increasing surveillance along major highways and border areas while setting up checkpoints to prevent them from fleeing further. Authorities are also working with local vigilantes and community leaders to gather intelligence that could lead to their swift recapture.
Commending the quick response of security agencies, Fanwo urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals. He warned that anyone found harbouring an escaped inmate would face severe legal consequences, emphasizing that community cooperation is essential in addressing security challenges.
This latest jailbreak adds to a growing list of security breaches at correctional facilities across Nigeria, raising urgent questions about the country’s prison management and security infrastructure. In recent years, multiple escapes have occurred nationwide, often linked to overcrowding, understaffing, and corruption within the system.
Experts warn that unless significant investments are made in modern security technology, better training for prison personnel, and stricter accountability measures, such incidents will continue. The Federal Government has been urged to reassess the security framework of correctional centers across the country to prevent further breaches.
The Kogi State government has assured residents that the situation is under control. Fanwo encouraged citizens to continue their daily activities without fear, reiterating that the protection of lives and property remains the government’s top priority.
As investigations continue, security agencies are under pressure to swiftly recapture the fugitives and uncover the full details of how the escape occurred.
