The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has launched an immediate investigation into the jailbreak that occurred at the Koton Karfe Correctional Centre in Kogi State.
Calling the incident “unfortunate,” Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that all escaped inmates would be recaptured using advanced biometric technology and other security measures.
In a statement released on Monday, Tunji-Ojo directed the Acting Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi, to visit the facility and conduct a comprehensive security audit.
“We are on top of the situation. Our men are on ground in Kogi, and I have ordered a comprehensive audit of the situation,” Tunji-Ojo said.
The minister also emphasized the government’s commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the jailbreak.
“All necessary measures, including our robust biometric database and existing technology solutions, will be deployed to recapture every escaped inmate,” he stated.
In addition to the investigation, Tunji-Ojo reassured the public that security at correctional facilities across Nigeria would be enhanced to prevent future breaches.
“The jailbreak at Koton Karfe is unfortunate, but we will get to the root of it. We will not allow breaches like this to go unchecked. Every fugitive will be found and brought to justice,” he added.
This incident is the latest in a series of prison security breaches in Nigeria, raising concerns over the safety and management of correctional facilities across the country.