Two Convicted Inmates Escape Kogi Custodial Centre, Investigation Ordered

Two convicted inmates have escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Okene, Kogi State, prompting a manhunt by security agencies and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed the escape in a statement issued on Tuesday, November 10, two days after the incident occurred.

The Service’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji, said the agency had commenced efforts in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the prompt recapture of the fleeing inmates.

Osuji disclosed that a comprehensive report was being awaited to establish the circumstances surrounding the escape.

She added that the Controller-General of Corrections had directed a thorough investigation to identify possible security lapses and determine appropriate action.

The Kogi State Police Command also confirmed the incident, saying it had received a report from the correctional facility and was working with the NCoS and other relevant security agencies to apprehend the escapees.

The police account puts the escape at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

The Command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said efforts to trace and apprehend the fleeing inmates were ongoing.

She also cautioned against the circulation of unverified information about the incident, stressing that her statement was the first and only official communication she had made to the press concerning the development.

Meanwhile, the Correctional Service assured members of the public that necessary measures were being implemented to return the escapees to custody.

The Service said it would provide further updates as verified information became available.

The circumstances surrounding the escape, including how the inmates left the facility and whether any security lapses contributed to the incident, remain subjects of investigation.