Nigerian Correctional Service Firmly Denies False Jailbreak Reports in Edo State
The Nigerian Correctional Service has issued a strong rebuttal against widespread rumors suggesting a jailbreak occurred at the Benin Custodial Centre in Edo State. In an official statement released on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the Service categorically labeled these reports as completely unfounded and without any factual basis.
Origins of the False Information
According to the NCoS, the misleading reports began circulating on January 24, 2026, claiming that three inmates had escaped from the custodial facility on Friday, January 16, 2026. The alleged escapees were reported to include:
- Two convicted fraudsters
- One individual arrested in connection with the 2020 #EndSARS protests who had not received final conviction
Official Statement from Correctional Service Spokesperson
Chief Superintendent of Correction JIN Osuji, the Service Public Relations Officer, delivered the official denial through a comprehensive statement. Osuji emphasized that thorough investigations had been conducted to verify the claims.
"Comprehensive checks and verifications conducted by the Edo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service confirm that all inmates are fully accounted for, and custodial operations across the State remain secure, stable, and under effective control," the statement read.
Reassurance to the Public
The Nigerian Correctional Service extended specific reassurances to residents of Benin City and Edo State, stating clearly that:
- All custodial facilities in the State are completely secure
- There is no threat whatsoever to public safety arising from any custodial centre
- The Service remains fully committed to its statutory mandate of safe custody, security, and rehabilitation of inmates
The statement concluded with a firm declaration that there had been no jailbreak, escape, or security breach in any custodial centre in Benin City or elsewhere in Edo State, putting to rest the unfounded rumors that had caused unnecessary concern among the public.
