Seven Inmates Escape Ilesa Prison as Rainstorm Collapses Perimeter Wall

ILESA, OSUN STATE – A torrential overnight rainfall on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, led to the escape of seven inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, after a section of the facility’s perimeter wall succumbed to the elements.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed the incident, stating that the breach occurred around 2:00 AM due to the structural failure of the “old perimeter wall” during the heavy downpour.

Following the jailbreak, the Controller General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape. The NCoS has also launched an extensive manhunt to recapture the fleeing inmates.

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Umar Abubakar, the Deputy Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer for the NCoS, in a statement, appealed to the public for cooperation and support in providing any information that could lead to the recapture of the escapees. He urged citizens to contact the nearest security agency or utilize the NCoS Response Desk lines: 07087086005, 09060004598, or 08075050006.

The Service is working closely with sister security agencies and community leaders to ensure the swift return of the escapees to lawful custody. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the deteriorating state of correctional facilities across Nigeria, which have proven vulnerable to natural disasters and security breaches in recent years. This escape follows a similar incident in April 2024 at the Suleja Custodial Centre, where 119 inmates escaped after heavy rainfall damaged the facility.