The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) FCT Command has confirmed the escape of 119 inmates from the Suleja Custodial Centre in Niger State. Samson Duza, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the command, issued a statement in Abuja on Thursday detailing the incident.

Following a rainstorm that battered the facility on Wednesday night, numerous inmates took advantage of the damaged sections to flee. The FCT command, responsible for Kuje and Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centres, said it immediately activated recapture protocols in collaboration with other security agencies.

The rainstorm not only inflicted damage on the custodial centre but also wreaked havoc on surrounding buildings and parts of the perimeter fence, facilitating the mass escape.

Out of the 119 escaped inmates, 10 have reportedly been recaptured.

Duza acknowledged that many correctional facilities, constructed during the colonial era, have deteriorated over time and are now vulnerable. To address this, the NCoS is vigorously pursuing the construction of modern custodial centres across all geopolitical zones, including ongoing reconstruction and renovation projects.

Despite the escape, the FCT command assured the public of its capability to manage the situation and urged residents to carry on with their daily activities without fear.

The public was encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or sightings of the escaped inmates to the nearest security agency.