Federal Government Intensifies Manhunt with Publication of Most Wanted Prison Escapees
In a significant move to bolster national security, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially released a detailed list of prison escapees now classified as most wanted persons across the country. The announcement, made public on February 6, 2026, through the Ministry of Interior, represents a crucial step in ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety and restore order within correctional facilities nationwide.
Government Issues Public Alert on Dangerous Fugitives
The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the publication serves as both a public alert and a call to action for citizens to assist security agencies with any information that could lead to the capture of these fugitives. Officials emphasized that these individuals escaped from various correctional facilities and remain at large, posing potential threats to communities across Nigeria.
The comprehensive list includes the following names of wanted escapees:
- Nworie Ikechukwu
- Nwosu Ikeja
- Obi Chika
- Obioha Ozoema
- Obi Chinedu
- Obiakor Francis Uche
- Obinna Emmanuel
- Obioha Victor
- Adamu Ibrahim
- Ajoku Darlington
- Adamu Muhammed
- Amanje Ikenna
Authorities have made photographs and additional details about these individuals available through official government channels, though the complete visual documentation requires direct access to Federal Government platforms.
Urgent Public Appeal for Information and Cooperation
In an official statement released to the public, the Ministry of Interior issued a direct appeal for citizen participation in the security effort:
"The following persons have been declared wanted by the Ministry of Interior (Nigerian Correctional Services). If you have any information regarding any of them, please call the emergency numbers +2348075050006, +2347087086005, +2349060004598, +234 (0) 700 009 9999 or contact the nearest police station immediately."
The Ministry stressed the importance of public vigilance and prompt reporting of any sightings or information about the escapees to law enforcement agencies. This collaborative approach between citizens and security forces is considered essential for successful apprehension operations.
Security Agencies Mobilize Nationwide Search Operations
Security agencies across Nigeria have reportedly intensified their efforts to track down the fugitives following the official declaration. The Nigerian Correctional Service has mobilized additional resources and personnel to coordinate search operations that span multiple states and regions.
This development highlights ongoing challenges within Nigeria's correctional system while reinforcing the government's commitment to addressing security gaps. The publication of the most wanted list comes as part of broader initiatives to improve prison security and prevent future escapes from correctional facilities.
Understanding the Nigerian Correctional Service Framework
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), operating under the Federal Ministry of Interior, serves as the primary government agency responsible for managing prisons and correctional centers nationwide. Originally established in 1861 as the Nigerian Prisons Service, the agency underwent significant reform and was renamed in August 2019 following the Nigerian Correctional Service Act.
Headquartered in Abuja, the NCoS maintains exclusive federal jurisdiction over all custodial centers in Nigeria, with no state-run prison facilities operating independently. The agency's core responsibilities include secure inmate custody, rehabilitation programs, and reformation initiatives designed to reduce recidivism rates. As a vital component of the country's criminal justice system, the NCoS plays a critical role in maintaining public safety and supporting national security objectives.
Historical Context and Security Implications
This security initiative follows previous government actions against criminal elements, including the 2024 publication of 21 individuals and six Bureau de Change entities designated as terrorism financiers. That earlier list emerged after sustained pressure from security experts, civil society organizations, and citizens demanding greater transparency in Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts.
The current most wanted list publication occurs amid renewed international attention on Nigeria's security landscape, with global stakeholders expressing concern about persistent challenges across West Africa. The government's proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to addressing security vulnerabilities while engaging citizens as partners in maintaining national stability.
Security analysts note that such public declarations serve multiple purposes: they alert communities to potential threats, demonstrate governmental transparency in security matters, and create psychological pressure on fugitives who must now operate with increased caution. The success of this initiative will depend significantly on the responsiveness of security agencies to public tips and the effectiveness of inter-agency coordination in pursuit operations.
