Kogi State Government has confirmed that 12 inmates have escaped in a jail break which occured in the early hours of Monday, 24 January, 2025.
The incident took place at the Federal Correctional Centre, Kontokarfe.
The government confirmed this development in a statement issued by the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Femi Fanwo who commended swift response of security agencies to the emergency calls by officials of the Correctional Centre.
Fanwo described the incident as “unfortunate” and assured citizens that the state government is taking decisive steps to prevent a recurrence.
According to him, the Kogi State government vowed to work with security agencies to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The theory that the inmates escaped through the tower without causing any structural damage raises serious concerns.
“This calls for a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the escape, arrest the fleeing inmates, and identify possible saboteurs within the system,” Fanwo said.
Fanwo added that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the State Security Adviser to collaborate with the Federal Correctional Center and other security agencies to ensure such security breaches do not happen again.
The state government has also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting federal security agencies through logistics and other necessary resources to enhance their operational effectiveness.
While investigations continue, the government has assured residents that the situation is under control.
“There is no cause for panic. We encourage citizens to go about their daily activities as normal, knowing that the security of lives and property remains our top priority,” he added.
