Tinubu Approves Relocation Of 29 Correctional Centres From Urban Areas Across Nigeria
The move is part of efforts to reform the correctional system and improve security.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres from urban areas across the country.
He made this known on Friday during the unveiling of some operational vehicles for the Nigerian Correctional Service.
“The approval has been given for the relocation of 29 correctional centres from urban areas to more suitable locations,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
The move is part of efforts to reform the correctional system and improve security.
Meanwhile, SaharaReporters had reported that between October 28, 2019 and April 25, 2024, no fewer than 6,356 inmates escaped from Nigerian Correctional Service Centres in a series of successful jailbreaks.
In recent years, Nigeria has experienced several jailbreaks, posing a threat to public safety.
These incidents have raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of security measures within the country’s prison system and also highlighted the need for reforms.
With high-profile inmates escaping and returning to society, often with grave implications for public security, addressing the root causes behind these jailbreaks has become a pressing priority for authorities.
On October 28, 2019, following torrential rain, flooding breached the Koton Karfe Correctional Centre in Kogi State, leading to the escape of 122 inmates.
January 2, 2022 — Mandala Prison, Ilorin, Kwara State: Three inmates escape from Mandala Prison.
May 13, 2022 — Agbor Prison, Delta State: Three inmates flee after heavy rainfall causes the northern perimeter wall of Agbor Prison to collapse, prompting the deployment of correctional guards, army, and police officials to recapture them.
December 26, 2023 – Ijebu Ode Correctional Centre, Ogun State: Three inmates escape from Ijebu Ode Correctional Centre.
April 25, 2024 – Suleja Jailbreak, Niger State: 108 inmates escape in the latest jailbreak incident in Suleja, Niger State.
