The Minister of Interior, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced a reduction in jailbreaks under the current administration compared to previous years. In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, he disputed claims of multiple jailbreaks since 2023, insisting that the actual number is significantly lower.
Tunji-Ojo cited the jailbreak incidents in Nasarawa, Niger, and Borno states as the only notable escapes since the administration took office. He explained that the Nasarawa incident involved a small number of inmates, while the Niger jailbreak was due to a fence collapse.
The minister stated, “From 2015 to 2023, these incidents were not under this government. Jailbreaks are not as bad under this particular administration.”
He also addressed a recent incident where 16 inmates escaped, noting that seven have already been recaptured due to improved biometric records and coordination with security agencies. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of ensuring that once inmates escape, efforts are made to recapture them.
Additionally, he outlined the challenges facing Nigeria’s correctional system, mentioning that many facilities are over 70 years old. He highlighted ongoing rehabilitation efforts and improvements in medical facilities at some correctional centres, including the employment of healthcare professionals.
Tunji-Ojo concluded by stating that the government is committed to developing a strategy in collaboration with state governors to address issues within the correctional system, affirming that the administration is focused on producing results rather than making excuses.
