In Niger State, a state of alarm ensued when a total of 119 inmates escaped following the destruction of the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Suleja due to a heavy rainstorm. Adamu Duza, the spokesperson of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), revealed this in a statement issued on Thursday morning.

Duza explained that the intense storm, accompanied by heavy rainfall around 9 pm, caused significant damage to the old Suleja custodial centre, including parts of its perimeter fence, leading to the escape of numerous inmates.

He stated, "A heavy downpour that lasted for several hours on the night of Wednesday, 24 April 2024 has wreaked havoc on the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Suleja, Niger state, as well as surrounding buildings, destroying part of the custodial facility, including its perimeter fence, giving way to the escape of a total of 118 inmates of the facility."

The NCoS swiftly activated its recapture procedures and, in collaboration with other security agencies, managed to recapture 10 escaped inmates, with efforts ongoing to apprehend the remaining individuals.

Duza acknowledged the aging infrastructure of many correctional facilities, noting ongoing efforts to replace them with modern facilities. He emphasized ongoing construction projects for six ultra-modern custodial centers across Nigeria and the renovation of existing facilities.

Assuring the public of their safety, Duza urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.