7 Inmates Escape from Ilesa Correctional Centre After Perimeter Wall Collapses

 

Security concerns have deepened in Osun State following the escape of seven inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa during the early hours of Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

The dramatic jailbreak occurred around 2:00 am, following heavy overnight rainfall that caused the collapse of the facility’s aging perimeter wall, creating a vulnerable breach that allowed the inmates to flee.

In a statement released by Umar Abubakar, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), authorities confirmed the escape and have since launched a nationwide manhunt in collaboration with other security agencies and local community leaders.

“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 read.

The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident to determine the structural vulnerabilities and circumstances that led to the escape.

He reassured the public that efforts are being intensified to locate and return the fugitives to custody, stressing that the breach was a result of “force majeure” a natural event beyond control.

The NCoS is urging members of the public to assist with any information that may help locate the escapees. Anyone with useful leads is encouraged to contact the nearest security agency or reach out through the NCoS Response Desk via the following numbers: 07087086005, 09060004598 and 08075050006