The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has declared seven inmates missing as a result of rain that damaged the security perimeter of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, in the early hours of Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The heavy rainfall around 2:00 a.m. caused a breach in the facility’s structure, allowing the inmates to escape. Authorities have since launched a manhunt to recapture the fugitives.
Confirming the development, the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, in a statement signed by Umar Abubakar, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Public Relations Officer, on Tuesday, ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and assured the public that efforts were underway to return the escapees to custody.
“The service is working closely with sister security agencies as well as community leaders to recapture the escapees and bring them back to custody,” the NCoS said in the statement.
“However, the Service solicits the cooperation and support of the public in providing information that may lead to the recapture of the fleeing inmates.”
“Anyone with information should please contact the nearest security agency or call the NCOS Response Desk lines as follows: 07087086005, 09060004598, 08075050006.”
Similarly, on April 24, 2024, a heavy downpour caused severe damage to Suleja Custodial Centre, allowing 119 inmates to escape. At least, 19 inmates were later recaptured.
