Sixteen inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, in the early hours of Tuesday after breaking through the facility’s security.
According to a statement by the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service, Umar Abubakar, the fleeing inmates overpowered personnel on duty during the incident, leaving five officers injured. Two of the injured officers are in critical condition and receiving treatment at a government hospital.
The statement confirmed that seven of the escapees had been recaptured, while security agencies are working to locate the remaining nine.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to inform the general public of an incident that occurred in the early hours of today, 12th August 2025, at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Keffi, Nasarawa State.
“Some inmates breached the security of the facility and attacked personnel on duty to compromise the situation, enabling 16 inmates to escape custody.
“In the course of containing the situation, five personnel of the Custodial Centre sustained varying degrees of injury, with two currently serious and receiving urgent medical attention at a government health facility.
“Seven of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured and are now in custody,” Abubakar stated.
The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, visited the facility after the incident and ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape. He warned that any staff found culpable would face disciplinary measures.
“The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, has visited the facility and has ordered a thorough investigation into the escape. He said no staff will be spared if found culpable.
“Furthermore, he has directed an immediate search to recapture the fleeing inmates in collaboration with sister security agencies.
“Members of the public are hereby urged to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or sightings of fleeing inmates to the nearest security formation.
“While preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape, the Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to public safety and the security of all custodial facilities nationwide,” the statement noted.
Advertisement
