In response to a natural disaster that prompted the escape of 119 inmates from the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has committed to substantial reforms in Nigeria’s correctional facilities.
On Wednesday night, an unexpected severe downpour resulted in critical damage to the Suleja facility, particularly breaching the perimeter fence and allowing inmates to escape. Following the incident, the minister surveyed the damage and addressed the media, emphasizing the urgent need for nationwide custodial reform.
“The storm led to a significant breach in the security of the facility, enabling some inmates to escape. We have recaptured 10, but 109 remain at large,” said Minister Tunji-Ojo. “We are actively working to apprehend the remaining escapees and prevent future incidents of this nature.”
Minister Tunji-Ojo acknowledged the role of deteriorating infrastructure in the security lapse. “The walls are visibly aged. This incident underlines the critical need for regular updates and maintenance of our custodial facilities,” he remarked.
During his address, the minister pointed out that the Suleja Centre was holding nearly double its intended capacity at the time of the breach, with 499 inmates housed in a facility designed for 250. He cited this overcrowding as a pressing issue that exacerbates the risk of further breaches and hampers effective management.
In discussing long-term strategies, Minister Tunji-Ojo outlined a plan to relocate correctional centers away from urban centers to enhance security and infrastructure. “Relocation will help mitigate risks and improve the management of these facilities. We are coordinating with other agencies to ensure that these plans are executed efficiently,” he stated.
As immediate actions continue to focus on recapturing the escaped inmates, the Minister emphasized that these incidents serve as a stark reminder of the broader structural issues plaguing the nation’s correctional system.
“This is not just about rectifying the breach but also about ensuring such vulnerabilities are comprehensively addressed across all our facilities to prevent recurrence,” Tunji-Ojo concluded, signaling a committed shift towards reform and improved security in Nigeria’s correctional system.
