The Edo correctional services command has launched a manhunt for inmates who escaped while appearing in court

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), Edo State Command, has launched efforts to recapture a 28-year-old awaiting trial inmate, Osita Thomas, who escaped while appearing in court last week.

Thomas, who is on trial for conspiracy and theft, fled while being taken to court from the Medium Security Detention Center in Auchi.

The incident was confirmed in a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Aminu Suleman, and conveyed to journalists in Benin on Thursday.

The command appealed to the public to assist security agencies with information that could lead to the arrest of the fugitive.

The statement read, “The Nigerian Correctional Service, Edo State Command, hereby informs the general public of the escape of inmates awaiting trial at the Medium Security Detention Centre, Auchi.

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“The incident occurred when he appeared in court to be tried on charges of conspiracy and theft.

“The Department asks for the community’s cooperation in re-arresting the fugitive. For anyone who has useful information regarding his whereabouts, please contact the nearest Custodian Center or Police Station, or call the following numbers: 08038075882, 08039243704.

“The Superintendent of Corrections, Edo State Command, assures the general public that no efforts will be made to re-arrest the fugitive, while the security of all inmates in custody has been strengthened.”

The development also drew attention to staffing challenges in the correctional service, with an NCS official attributing the escape in part to a lack of personnel available to supervise inmates during court appearances.

The official explained that the officers escorting Thomas and the other inmates could not leave the remaining prisoners behind to pursue the escapee, as that could create an opportunity for other inmates to escape.

“The warden cannot let other inmates go after Osita because he will risk losing others. The manpower shortage must be addressed now so that incidents like this do not happen again,” the official added.

The official further claimed that more than 1,000 correctional service personnel are expected to retire this year, and expressed concern that no plans have been made to recruit replacements.

Alleged staffing gaps, the official said, require immediate attention to prevent similar incidents and ensure safe supervision of inmates during transfers and court proceedings.

Meanwhile, Edo State Command said it has strengthened security measures within its detention facilities and will continue efforts to locate and arrest escaped inmates.