JUST IN: 12 Inmates Escape from Kogi Prison

Twelve inmates have escaped from the federal correctional centre in the Koton Karfe area of Kogi State in the early hours of Monday, sparking a swift response from security agencies and the state government.

Confirming the incident, Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, described the jailbreak as “unfortunate” and said security personnel are actively working to track down the escapees. He revealed that one of the fugitives has already been re-arrested, while efforts are ongoing to recapture the remaining eleven.

Fanwo urged members of the public to report any suspicious individuals in their communities, warning that anyone found harboring an escaped inmate would be held accountable. “We call on the public to report any suspicious individuals in their communities. Anyone found harboring an escaped inmate will be held accountable,” he said.

Expressing concern over the circumstances of the escape, the commissioner noted that the inmates reportedly fled through the tower without causing any structural damage—an anomaly that has raised questions about possible internal compromise. “This calls for a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the escape, arrest the fleeing inmates, and identify possible saboteurs within the system,” Fanwo stated.

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has directed the state security adviser to collaborate closely with the federal correctional centre and other security agencies to strengthen security and prevent further breaches. Fanwo assured residents that the situation is under control and urged them to remain calm. “There is no cause for panic. We encourage citizens to go about their daily activities as normal, knowing that the security of lives and property remains our top priority,” he said.