Heavy rains wreaked havoc at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger state on Wednesday night, resulting in the escape of 119 inmates. The downpour, lasting several hours, caused extensive damage to the facility’s perimeter fence, facilitating the inmates’ escape.

Adamu Duza, spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory FCT Command of the Nigeria Correctional Service NCoS, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday morning. He explained that the heavy rainfall destroyed part of the custodial facility, including its perimeter fence, leading to the escape of 118 inmates.

In response, the Correctional Service promptly activated recapture measures, collaborating with other security agencies. As a result, 10 fleeing inmates have been recaptured, with efforts ongoing to apprehend the remaining escapees.

Duza acknowledged the aging infrastructure of many correctional facilities, emphasizing ongoing efforts to modernize and upgrade them. Construction of new, high-capacity custodial centers is underway across all geopolitical zones, alongside the reconstruction and renovation of existing facilities.

Despite the incident, Duza reassured the public of the Correctional Service’s vigilance and urged citizens to continue their daily activities without fear. He also encouraged the public to report any suspicious movements or sightings of the fleeing inmates to the nearest security agency.