The Nigerian Correctional Service has remained silent over the whereabouts of no fewer than 350 inmates who escaped from the Suleja and Maiduguri correctional facilities in 2024, following severe flooding and rainfall.

Earlier in the year, on April 24, heavy rains caused the walls of the Suleja Medium Security Prison in Niger State to collapse, leading to the escape of 119 inmates, with only 23 rearrested.

Also, on September 9, a ravaging flood triggered the collapse of the perimeter wall at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Maiduguri, Borno State.

A total of 281 inmates fled after the incident with only seven recaptured. Observations by The PUNCH showed that the Correctional Service has since then failed to provide updates on efforts to recapture the runaway inmates.

The spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, did not respond to calls or messages when contacted on Wednesday for comment.

PUNCH