In a decisive move to reform Nigeria’s correctional system and enhance national security, President Bola Tinubu has approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres from urban areas to more secure locations across the country.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on Friday during the unveiling of newly acquired operational vehicles for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
“The approval has been given for the relocation of 29 correctional centres from urban areas to more suitable locations,” Tunji-Ojo stated, emphasizing that the decision aligns with the administration’s broader agenda of strengthening security and improving prison infrastructure.
Nigeria has witnessed a troubling wave of jailbreaks in recent years, exposing critical lapses in the country’s correctional system. According to a report by SaharaReporters, between October 28, 2019, and April 25, 2024, at least 6,356 inmates have escaped from various correctional facilities across the nation.
These prison breaks have not only undermined public safety but also raised pressing questions about the effectiveness of security measures within the correctional system. Many of the escapees include high-profile criminals, whose return to society poses grave risks.
October 28, 2019 – Koton Karfe, Kogi State: Heavy flooding breached the perimeter of the Koton Karfe Correctional Centre, allowing 122 inmates to escape.
January 2, 2022 – Mandala Prison, Kwara State: Three inmates successfully broke out of the Mandala facility in Ilorin.
May 13, 2022 – Agbor Prison, Delta State: Following a heavy downpour, the northern perimeter wall collapsed, leading to the escape of three inmates before security forces intervened.
December 26, 2023 – Ijebu Ode, Ogun State: Another three inmates managed to flee the Ijebu Ode Correctional Centre under unclear circumstances.
April 25, 2024 – Suleja, Niger State: In one of the most recent and significant breaches, 108 inmates escaped from the Suleja Correctional Centre.
The mass relocation of correctional facilities is seen as part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize Nigeria’s prison system and curb the recurring menace of jailbreaks. Security analysts believe moving these facilities to less congested and more strategically planned locations will help reduce the risk of external attacks and internal security breaches.
While the relocation initiative is a commendable step, experts argue that it must be complemented by improved surveillance, enhanced manpower, and better funding to ensure long-term success. Until these reforms are fully implemented, the threat of jailbreaks will remain a lingering challenge for Nigeria’s security apparatus.
PIONEER NEWS 