No fewer than 200 inmates escaped from the Maiduguri correctional facility after a portion of the facility’s perimeter fence was pulled down in the aftermath of the flood that submerged 70% of Borno State.
It was gathered that the floodwaters ravaged the facility’s security, damaged barriers, and weakened its structure, leading to the escape of the inmates.
Bala Adamu, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Correctional Service Borno Command, confirmed the jailbreak to the reporters. He stated that following a manhunt for the escapees, three were recaptured on Tuesday.
“We are still assessing the number of inmates who escaped from the prison. As of now, we have recaptured three of the escapees,” Adamu told reporters.
Meanwhile, the NCoS announced that it was taking swift action to address the consequences from its Medium Security Custodial Centre in Maiduguri.
Umar Abubukar, spokesperson for the NCoS, stated that the service had implemented an emergency plan that included transferring offenders to safer institutions, liaising with security and emergency agencies for assistance, and ensuring that its services continued to operate.
Abubukar stated that NCoS authorities were working carefully to handle the issue and ensure the safe transit of detainees.
He stated, “As the agency responsible for the safekeeping of inmates, we want to assure the public that we are taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety; evacuate inmates to a safer facility; ensure smooth operations; and collaborate with sister security and relevant agencies in providing support and assistance to those affected.
“Contrary to initial reports, the officers and men of the command are working to ensure a smooth and secure transfer process.
“We appreciate the support and guidance from the Presidency and the Vice President’s visit to Maiduguri to assess the situation.
“We will continue to provide updates and will like to assure the public that the NCoS is committed to maintaining order and ensuring public safety during this challenging time.”
Businesses in Maiduguri have closed due to flooding as residents struggle to shift to safer areas.
Chronicle NG discovered that the flood was intense in the Kofar Shehu Area, where the Shehu of Borno lives, as residents, including the Shehu, fled for safety, leaving belongings behind.
“The Shehu was taken out this morning after the water became uncontrollable. I heard they took him to the government house,” a resident, Kuda Alhassan, said. “The water came unexpectedly; there was no information until we heard later that the water was released (from the dam) in the middle of the night.”
