NCoS reacts to alleged jailbreak in Edo correctional Centre

The Nigerian Correctional Service has debunked reports of a jailbreak at the Benin Correctional Centre in Edo State.

The service in a statement issued by Chief Superintendent of Correction JIN Osuji, NCoS spokesperson described such a claim of jailbreak in Benin as false and misleading.

Recall that there had been online reports of an alleged jailbreak at the Benin Correctional Centre on Friday, January 16.

According to the claim, three inmates and two other convicted fraudsters escaped from the facility.

It also said that one of those arrested in connection with the 2020 EndSARS protest also escaped from the centre.

However, Osuji said the report is unfounded as there was no security breach in any of the facilities in Benin City or across Edo State.

“Comprehensive checks and verifications conducted by the Edo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service confirm that all inmates are fully accounted for, and custodial operations across the State remain secure, stable, and under effective control.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to assure the general public, especially residents of Benin City and Edo State, that all custodial facilities in the State are secure, there is no threat whatsoever to public safety arising from any custodial centre, and the Service remains fully committed to its statutory mandate of safe custody, security, and rehabilitation of inmates,” Osuji said.

Also restating the NCoS’s respect for the role of the media in nation-building, Osuji said the service would not hesitate to pursue appropriate legal remedies against individuals or media organisations that publish unverified, or malicious reports capable of undermining its efforts.