Sixteen inmates escape from Keffi prison after overpowering guards, leaving five officers injured.
Seven fugitives recaptured as manhunt continues, with investigation launched into security breach.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has confirmed a security breach at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, which resulted in the escape of 16 inmates.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, the Service’s Deputy Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, said the incident occurred in the early hours of the day. He explained that some inmates overpowered security personnel on duty, enabling their escape.
During the attack, five custodial officers sustained various injuries, with two reported to be in critical condition and receiving treatment at a government hospital.
Seven of the escaped inmates have been rearrested and taken back into custody.
The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, who visited the facility, ordered a full investigation into the incident. He warned that any staff member found complicit would face disciplinary action and directed an intensified manhunt for the remaining escapees in collaboration with other security agencies.
Nwakuche urged the public to stay calm, remain vigilant, and promptly report any suspicious activity or sighting of the fugitives to the nearest security outfit.
While preliminary investigations continue, the Service assured Nigerians of its firm commitment to safeguarding lives, maintaining security, and protecting all correctional facilities nationwide.
