The Federal Government has released the names of the seven inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, following a jailbreak that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed that the escape was triggered by a heavy downpour, which compromised a section of the facility’s perimeter fence. Authorities say the breach allowed the inmates to break free under the cover of darkness.

Security around the prison has since been tightened. When our correspondent visited the scene on Tuesday afternoon, armed personnel from the Nigerian Correctional Service, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were visibly stationed at strategic points around the premises.

An officer who spoke anonymously disclosed that the damaged part of the fence has been repaired. “We’ve fixed the breach and have heightened surveillance. All agencies are now working together to prevent a recurrence,” he said.

In the wake of the incident, a manhunt has been launched to track down the escapees. However, the Osun State Police Command said it had yet to receive a formal complaint from the Correctional Service.

Speaking with journalists, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abiodun Ojelabi, said: “It is our duty to go after all criminals within the nooks and crannies of Osun State. If you are asking specifically about the inmates, we are still waiting for the Correctional Service to make an official complaint at the nearest police formation. We are fully prepared to act once that is done.”

Meanwhile, the NCoS has released the names and details of the escaped inmates as part of ongoing efforts to mobilize the public for support in their rearrest.

FULL LIST OF ESCAPED INMATES:

Kabiru Oyedun

Offence: Murder

Case Year: 2021

2. Eze Nweze

Offence: Armed Robbery

Case Year: 2023

3. John Michael

Offence: Armed Robbery

Case Year: 2023

4. Olalekan Ajofoyinbo

Offence: Armed Robbery

Case Year: 2021

5. Ninalowo Yusuf

Offence: Breaking In and Stealing

Case Year: 2025

6. Matthew Ogunjimi

Offence: Illegal Possession of Firearms and Armed Robbery

Case Year: 2018

7. Tobi Akin

Offence: Illegal Possession of Firearms and Armed Robbery

Case Year: 2018