How an Ex-Convict Used a Broomstick to Unlock Chains, Escape from Court in Kwara — and Was Recaptured Hours Later

A dramatic incident unfolded at the Ilorin Area Court on Tuesday, June 24, when an ex-convict, Segun Samuel, escaped from custody after using a broomstick to unlock the chains on his legs. The escape, which caught court officials and security personnel off guard, occurred in broad daylight during court proceedings.

Samuel, who was standing trial for four separate criminal cases, had just been sentenced in two of them. According to the prosecution counsel, ASP Samuel Mayowa, the court had sentenced him to one year in prison on Monday and six months of community service in another case. The third case was scheduled to be heard on the day of the escape.

Shortly after entering the courtroom, Samuel requested to use the restroom. Under this pretence, he walked out casually, giving no indication of what he was about to do. Before anyone could react, he scaled the fence of the court premises and disappeared.

It was later revealed that Samuel had used a broomstick to pick the locks on the chains securing his legs — an improvised method that enabled his swift escape.

Security personnel, including police officers and a prison warder present at the court, immediately launched a manhunt. With the assistance of residents in the area, the search led them to a dilapidated building in the Oke-Suna area of Ilorin, where the fugitive was eventually found hiding.

Samuel was promptly apprehended and returned to custody. Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the escape are ongoing.