Heavy rainfall on Wednesday night caused extensive damage to the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State, leading to the escape of 118 inmates, as confirmed by Adamu Duza, spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The downpour resulted in severe infrastructure damage, including a breach in the perimeter fence, facilitating the escape.
The NCoS immediately initiated recapturing protocols, managing to apprehend 10 escapees so far, with efforts ongoing to capture the rest. Recognizing the vulnerability of aging facilities, the NCoS is committed to modernizing its infrastructure. Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Francis John, assured the public of control over the situation and urged them to carry on with their daily activities without fear.
The public was urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or sightings of escaped inmates. Meanwhile, the United States highlighted the issue of overcrowding in Nigerian prisons, citing a 50% increase beyond capacity in numerous facilities, with some facing challenges in meeting basic living stan
The situation regarding overcrowding in Nigerian prisons was underscored by the United States in its ‘2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Nigeria,’ published recently.
The report revealed that many correctional facilities are grappling with a significant increase in the number of inmates, far beyond their intended capacity, indicating a systemic issue.
It also highlighted the struggles faced by some prisons, some of which have histories dating back 70 to 80 years, in meeting even the most fundamental standards of living.
Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to address the issues within the Nigerian correctional system. The Nigerian Correctional Service, along with other security agencies, is working diligently to recapture the escaped inmates and ensure the safety and security of the public.
Additionally, there is a commitment to modernizing infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future and to improve conditions for inmates across the country.
