Federal Government Intensifies Manhunt for Prison Escapees Across Nigeria
The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Ministry of Interior, has officially released a comprehensive list of individuals who have escaped from correctional facilities and are now declared most wanted persons across the nation. This significant announcement was made on February 6, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and restore order within the country's security framework.
Official Publication of Fugitive Details
Authorities confirmed that the publication serves as a critical alert to the general public, encouraging citizens to provide valuable information that could lead to the apprehension of these fugitives. The Ministry of Interior published the names of the escapees, which include:
- 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
These individuals were declared wanted after breaking out of various correctional facilities and remain at large, posing potential security risks to communities nationwide.
Public Appeal for Vigilance and Cooperation
In an official statement, the Ministry of Interior issued a direct appeal to citizens, stating: "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 numbers +2348075050006, +2347087086005, +2349060004598, +234 (0) 700 009 9999 or contact the nearest police station."
The Ministry emphasized that members of the public should remain vigilant and report any sightings or information about the escapees to law enforcement agencies immediately. This collaborative approach is seen as essential for successful apprehension and maintaining national security.
Security Agencies Intensify Search Operations
Security agencies across Nigeria have reportedly intensified their efforts to track down these fugitives. The government has urged citizens to cooperate fully with authorities to ensure that all declared wanted persons are returned to custody promptly. This development highlights persistent challenges within Nigeria's correctional system while reinforcing the administration's commitment to strengthening public safety measures.
Understanding the Nigerian Correctional Service
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) is the government agency responsible for managing prisons and correctional centres throughout Nigeria. Established in 1861 and formerly known as the Nigerian Prisons Service, it was renamed in August 2019 following the Nigerian Correctional Service Act. The agency operates under the Federal Ministry of Interior and is headquartered in Abuja.
Its primary duties include the safe custody of inmates, rehabilitation programs, and reformation initiatives aimed at reducing re-offending rates. All custodial centres in Nigeria are federal facilities, with no state-run prisons, making the NCoS a vital component of the country's criminal justice system.
Historical Context and Previous Security Measures
This announcement follows previous government actions targeting security threats. In 2024, the Federal Government released a list of 21 individuals and six Bureau de Change (BDC) entities designated as terrorism financiers. That publication, made available through the Nigeria Sanctions Committee website, came after years of pressure from security experts, civil society organizations, and citizens demanding greater transparency in Nigeria's fight against terrorism.
The current manhunt for prison escapees occurs amid renewed global attention on Nigeria's security challenges, with international observers expressing concern over rising insecurity across West Africa. The government's proactive approach in publishing this most wanted list demonstrates its determination to address these issues through coordinated public engagement and law enforcement efforts.
