Minister Orders Probe Into Kogi Prison Break as Authorities Launch Manhunt
The Nigerian government has launched an investigation into a jailbreak at the Federal Correctional Centre in Koton Karfe, Kogi State, where at least 12 inmates escaped in the early hours of Monday.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, has directed a full-scale probe into the incident, describing it as “unfortunate.” He assured Nigerians that authorities are deploying advanced biometric technology and existing security solutions to track down the fugitives.
Confirming the incident, Kingsley Fanwo, Kogi State Commissioner for Information, stated that security operatives had successfully recaptured one of the escapees while efforts were ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates.
In response to the crisis, Tunji-Ojo instructed Sylvester Ndidi, Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, to visit the affected facility, assess the extent of the breach, and conduct a thorough security audit.
“We are on top of the situation. Our personnel are on the ground in Kogi, and I have ordered a comprehensive review of the security measures in place,” the minister assured in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alao Babatunde.
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has also taken swift action, directing the state’s security adviser to collaborate with federal correctional authorities and other security agencies to prevent future occurrences. He urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies are in full control of the situation.
