The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has initiated an immediate investigation into the recent jailbreak at the Koton Karfe Correctional Centre in Kogi State.
The incident has been labeled “unfortunate” by the minister, who assured that all escaped inmates would be captured using advanced biometric technology and enhanced security measures.
In a statement released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media, Babatunde Alao, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s commitment to understanding the circumstances of the prison break.
He also instructed the Acting Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), Sylvester Ndidi, to visit the facility and conduct a thorough security audit.
“We are on top of the situation. Our men are on the ground in Kogi, and I’ve ordered a full audit of the security measures,” the minister said. He further assured the public that no effort would be spared in tracking down the escaped inmates.
“The robust biometric database and existing technology solutions will be deployed to recapture all the inmates,” he added.
Tunji-Ojo also addressed the matter on his official social media, reaffirming his dedication to accountability within the correctional system.
“The jailbreak at Koton Karfe is unfortunate, but we will uncover the full details. No breaches like this will go unchecked. Every fugitive will be apprehended and brought to justice,” he wrote.
Additionally, the minister assured the public that security at correctional facilities nationwide would be bolstered to prevent further incidents. He stated that any lapses in the system would be swiftly addressed.
This jailbreak is the latest in a series of prison security issues in Nigeria, raising concerns about the safety and management of correctional facilities. However, Tunji-Ojo reassured that his ministry is committed to enforcing stricter security protocols.
