Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, recently discussed the improvements in the country’s correctional system, particularly the implementation of a digitalised biometric system that aids in the swift recapture of inmates who escape from correctional centres.
During a television interview on Thursday, Tunji-Ojo addressed claims of frequent jailbreaks, stating that there have been up to seven incidents since the beginning of 2023, while asserting that the actual figure is lower. He pointed out that many of Nigeria’s custodial facilities are over 100 years old, with at least 12 of the 246 centres currently undergoing rehabilitation.
“The simple truth is that from 2015 to 2023, these incidents were not under this government. I can tell you that jailbreaks are not as prevalent under this particular administration,” he stated.
He recounted specific incidents, including a jailbreak in Niger’s Suleja that occurred due to a collapsed fence, which highlighted the outdated nature of the correctional records system. “We immediately worked on that because the key issue is not just preventing escapes, but ensuring that we recapture inmates effectively,” he added.
Tunji-Ojo also referenced a flood incident in Maiduguri that led to the inundation of the correctional centre, emphasizing that it was a natural disaster beyond the government’s control.
Swift Response and Collaborative Efforts
The Minister elaborated on a recent jailbreak in Nasarawa involving 16 inmates, noting that thanks to the digitalised biometric records and improved coordination with security agencies, seven of the escaped inmates have already been recaptured. He remains optimistic that the remaining nine will also be returned soon.
“Out of the 16 who escaped, as of yesterday, we had arrested seven, with nine remaining. We are still working, and hopefully, we will get the remaining nine back within the next couple of days,” he stated.
Additionally, Tunji-Ojo highlighted recent advancements in medical facilities within prisons under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which now includes the employment of 50 doctors, 100 nurses, and the deployment of NYSC doctors.
# Acknowledging Responsibility and Seeking Solutions
The management of correctional centres has now been placed on the concurrent legislative list, allowing for joint operations by federal and state governments. Tunji-Ojo noted that approximately 72 percent of inmates are state offenders, with 67 percent awaiting trial, and that the federal government absorbs most of their upkeep costs.
“We do not make excuses. The president always says we were elected to produce results, not to shift blame,” Tunji-Ojo asserted. “As a government, we will continue to collaborate with state governors to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges faced by our correctional system.”
He concluded by affirming that significant strides have been made in the last two years to enhance resources and improve the security and management of correctional facilities across the country.