Seven inmates have escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesha, Osun State, after heavy rainfall destroyed part of the prison’s old perimeter wall in the early hours of Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The escape, which occurred around 2:00 a.m., has since triggered serious concern among residents of the area.
Authorities from the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) have confirmed the development and immediately launched a manhunt for the escapees.
According to a statement issued by NCoS spokesman, Umar Abubakar, the prison break happened due to a force majeure caused by the overnight rainstorm.
The wall, which had been weakened over time, eventually collapsed under the pressure of the downpour.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service has launched an expansive manhunt following the rainfall that breached the security of its facility at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Ilesa, Osun State,” the statement said.
“The force majeure which occurred at about 0200hours on Tuesday, 20th of May 2025 led to the escape of seven (7) inmates,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the situation.
He also assured the public that coordinated efforts are already in place to return the escapees to custody.
“Following the incident, the Controller General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape,” the NCoS stated.
“The Service is working closely with sister security agencies as well as community leaders to recapture the escapees and bring them back to custody,” the statement continued.
In addition, members of the public have been urged to cooperate with authorities by providing any information that may help in tracking down the fleeing inmates.
“However, the Service solicits the cooperation and support of the public in providing information that may lead to the recapture of the fleeing inmates,” the statement added.
For urgent reports or sightings of any of the escapees, residents are advised to contact the nearest security agency or call any of the following NCoS Response Desk lines:
07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.
However, as of the time of this report, the search operation is still ongoing, and authorities remain hopeful that all escapees will be safely returned to custody.
