The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed that 16 inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, during a jailbreak that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday.
According to a statement by the NCoS spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, the escapees managed to breach the facility’s security and overpowered personnel on duty, leading to injuries among the officers.
“The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to inform the general public of an incident that occurred in the early hours of today, 12th August 2025, at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Keffi, Nasarawa State,” the statement read.
“Some inmates breached the security of the facility and attacked personnel on duty to compromise the situation, enabling 16 inmates to escape custody.
“In the course of containing the situation, five personnel of the Custodial Centre sustained varying degrees of injury, with two currently serious and receiving urgent medical attention at a government health facility.”
Abubakar disclosed that seven of the 16 inmates have already been recaptured, while nine remain at large. A manhunt has since been launched in collaboration with other security agencies to locate and return the remaining escapees.
“Seven of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured and are now in custody,” he confirmed.
In response to the jailbreak, the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, visited the facility and has ordered a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the breach.
He warned that any staff found culpable would face disciplinary action.
“The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, has visited the facility and has ordered a thorough investigation into the escape. He said no staff will be spared if found culpable,” the statement continued.
“Furthermore, he has directed an immediate search to recapture the fleeing inmates in collaboration with sister security agencies.”
The NCoS called on the public to stay alert and report any suspicious movements or individuals matching the description of the escapees.
“Members of the public are hereby urged to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or sightings of fleeing inmates to the nearest security formation,” Abubakar added.
The service reassured Nigerians of its commitment to public safety and to strengthening security measures at all custodial centres nationwide.
“While preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape, the Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to public safety and the security of all custodial facilities nationwide,” the statement concluded.
