The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed the escape of two inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Okene, Kogi State, prompting a security operation to track down and return them to custody.
The inmates reportedly escaped from the facility on Sunday, November 8, 2026, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Jane Osuji.
Osuji said the correctional authorities had commenced efforts to recapture the fleeing inmates in collaboration with relevant security agencies.
Following the incident, Controller-General of Corrections Sylvester Nwakuche ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine how the escape occurred and establish whether security or operational lapses contributed to the incident.
The investigation is also expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the inmates’ disappearance and identify any weaknesses that may require corrective action.
Police join search for escaped inmates
The Kogi State Police Command has also confirmed the incident, saying it received a report from the correctional facility and was working with the NCoS and other security agencies to apprehend the escapees.
According to a report by TheCable, the police said the inmates escaped at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 8.
Police spokesperson ASP Saliu Afusat confirmed that efforts to trace and arrest the two men were ongoing.
The identities of the escapees have not been officially disclosed in the NCoS announcement. Although some media reports have published names attributed to a police situation report, those details have not been independently confirmed by the correctional authorities.
Incident raises fresh questions about custodial security
The Okene incident comes weeks after another inmate escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Auchi, Edo State, in October 2026.
The earlier incident involved an awaiting-trial inmate who was being held over allegations of conspiracy and stealing.
The recurrence of escape incidents at custodial facilities has renewed attention on security arrangements, inmate supervision and the effectiveness of measures designed to prevent unauthorised departures from correctional centres. Punch Newspapers
The NCoS has yet to disclose the precise circumstances surrounding the Okene escape or announce the findings of its investigation.
The Service has assured Nigerians that efforts to recapture the two inmates are ongoing and promised to provide further information as verified details become available.
