Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has announced plans to work with relevant authorities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to fast-track the prosecution of inmates awaiting trial at the Keffi Medium Custodial Centre.
Sule visited the facility on Wednesday, a day after a jailbreak in which 16 inmates escaped. He observed that many of the inmates awaiting trial were facing cases in FCT courts and pledged to reduce congestion by accelerating their trials.
Addressing the inmates, the governor urged them to remain law-abiding and promised improved living conditions, directing the immediate supply of 500 mattresses to the centre. He commended correctional officers and other security agencies for recapturing some escapees and urged residents to report suspicious individuals.
According to the Nigerian Correctional Service spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, the escape occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when inmates overpowered personnel on duty, injuring five officers, two of whom remain in serious condition. Seven escapees have been recaptured, while efforts continue to locate the rest.
Controller General of Corrections Sylvester Nwakuche has ordered a full investigation and warned that any staff member found complicit will face disciplinary action.