Twelve inmates have escaped from the Federal Correctional Centre in Kotonkarfe, Kogi State, following an early morning jailbreak on Monday.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the escape, calling the incident “unfortunate.”
He reassured residents that the state government, in partnership with security agencies, is taking swift action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Fanwo revealed that one of the escapees has already been re-arrested, and efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining fugitives.
“The fact that the inmates reportedly escaped via the tower without damaging the structure raises significant concerns,” Fanwo noted. “This warrants a full investigation to understand how the escape occurred, track down the fugitives, and identify any potential insiders who may have been involved.”
The commissioner also stated that Governor Usman Ododo has instructed security forces to bolster security measures at correctional facilities statewide to prevent further breaches.
“We urge the public to report any suspicious individuals in their communities. Anyone found sheltering an escaped inmate will face legal consequences,” Fanwo added.
“There is no reason for panic. We encourage everyone to continue their daily activities as usual, knowing that safeguarding lives and property remains our top priority,” he said.
