Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the minister of interior, has ordered a probe into the prison break at the Federal Correctional Centre in Koton Karfe area of Kogi state.
Earlier today, Kingsley Fanwo, the Kogi state commissioner for information, disclosed that at least 12 inmates escaped during the jailbreak.
Fanwo said that security operatives have re-arrested one of the escapees, while efforts are ongoing to recapture the others.
Reacting in a statement by Alao Babatunde, his special adviser on media and publicity, Tunji-Ojo described the incident as “unfortunate”.
He added that all fleeing inmates would be captured using the service’s advanced biometrics and existing technology solutions.
The minister also asked Sylvester Ndidi, the acting controller general of the Nigerian Correctional Service, to visit the Kogi facility, assess the situation, and conduct a comprehensive audit.
“We are on top of the situation. Our men are on ground in Kogi, and I have ordered a comprehensive audit of the situation,” he added.
Usman Ododo, governor of Kogi, has also directed the state’s security adviser to “collaborate with the federal correctional centre and other security agencies to prevent future breaches”.
He asked residents to remain calm, adding that security agencies are in control of the situation.
