The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) said it has launched a wide search for seven inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, following heavy rainfall that damaged the facility’s security.
The incident happened around 2 a.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, according to Umar Abubakar, the spokesperson for the service. He revealed this in a statement released late Tuesday night.
The escape occurred due to a force majeure caused by heavy rainfall which led to the breach of the prison’s security. This allowed seven inmates to flee from custody.
The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has directed an urgent probe into the circumstances that led to the escape. The investigation aims to understand how the inmates managed to break free and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The correctional service is working closely with other security agencies, including the police and local authorities, to find and return the escapees to custody. Efforts are also being made to involve community leaders in the search.
The NCoS has asked for the help of the public in locating the fugitives. They urged anyone with information to contact nearby security officials or call the NCoS response lines at 07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.
