The Nigerian Correctional Service is facing criticism for its delay in publishing the database of the remaining 100 inmates who escaped from the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre in Niger State 18 days ago.
According to The PUNCH, the incident, which occurred on April 24, 2024, saw 119 inmates escape due to a breach in the perimeter fence caused by heavy rainfall.
Despite the recapture of 19 inmates so far, the NCoS has yet to release vital information about the fleeing prisoners, raising concerns over public safety and the effectiveness of the response efforts.
The delay has prompted calls for swift action and increased transparency from the relevant authorities to ensure the prompt recapture of the escaped inmates and the safety of the community.
Security experts and stakeholders have expressed concern over the delay, stating that timely dissemination of information is crucial for public safety and law enforcement efforts.
Former Commissioner of Police, Lawrence Alobi, emphasized the need for the NCoS to promptly inform the public about the escaped inmates, stating that publishing the inmates’ database as soon as possible is imperative.
He said, “The NCoS ought to have made the information of the fleeing inmates known to the public. The members of the public are the ones who can identify them to notify the security agencies of their arrests.
“The NCoS ought to have done the needful before now. Some of the fleeing inmates might have even left the country.
“The inaction of the NCoS is causing some concerns among security agencies and members of the public.
“The earlier they publish the database of the inmates, the better.
Security experts, Oladele Fajana and Chidi Omeje, also highlighted the security threats posed by the delay, with Fajana stating that the delay is a security threat and the Federal Government should take immediate action.
Omeje noted that the NCoS lacks a database of the escaped inmates, underscoring the incompetence of the officers, and that the fleeing inmates pose a significant threat to society.
The NCoS has been urged to take swift action and publish the database of the escaped inmates to ensure public safety and prevent further security threats.
