By Atoyebi Nike
A coordinated manhunt is underway in Nasarawa State after 16 inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Keffi, early Tuesday, leaving five correctional officers injured.
The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed that seven fugitives were swiftly rearrested, while nine remain at large. According to spokesperson Abubakar Umar, the escape followed a violent attack on warders by a group of inmates who overpowered security personnel during the early morning hours.
Two of the injured officers are reported to be in critical condition and are receiving urgent care at a government hospital. The NCoS said security operations involving the police, military, and other agencies have been deployed to track down the remaining escapees.
Controller General of Corrections Sylvester Nwakuche, who visited the facility, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the breach and warned that any personnel found complicit or negligent will face severe disciplinary action.
Residents of Nasarawa and neighboring areas have been urged to remain calm but vigilant, reporting any suspicious movements to security authorities. The NCoS reiterated its commitment to tightening security at custodial centres nationwide.
