Escape Of 7 Inmates From Ilesa Prison: Correctional Facility Blames Heavy Rainfall, Launches Manhunt For Escapees

The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, May 20, 2025, around 2:00 a.m., according to a statement issued by the NCoS Public Relations Officer, Deputy Controller of Corrections Umar Abubakar.

Describing the incident as a force majeure, the NCoS explained that the heavy downpour compromised parts of the facility’s perimeter, enabling the escape of the inmates.

In response, the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the security breach and subsequent jailbreak.

Authorities say efforts are underway in collaboration with other security agencies and local community leaders to locate and return the escapees to custody.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service is actively working with sister security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure the recapture of the fleeing inmates,” the statement said.

The NCoS also appealed to the general public for assistance, urging anyone with useful information to come forward and aid in the recapture effort.

“Members of the public are encouraged to provide any information that could lead to the apprehension of the escapees. Such information should be directed to the nearest security agency or reported via the NCoS Response Desk through the following phone numbers: 07087086005, 09060004598, 08075050006,” the statement concluded.

The incident has raised fresh concerns about the resilience of correctional infrastructure across the country, particularly in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather conditions.