Governor Adeleke Expresses Deep Concern Over Ilesa Correctional Centre Jailbreak
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has expressed serious concern over the jailbreak incident that occurred at the Ilesa Correctional Centre in the early hours of Tuesday, May 21.
The incident, which has raised fresh concerns about the security of correctional facilities in the state, reportedly led to the death of two inmates and left two others injured.
According to the Controller of Corrections, Olanrewaju Amoran, the incident began around 11:48 a.m. during the routine release of inmates for morning exercises. Inmates from a particular cell allegedly overpowered correctional officers, released fellow inmates from adjoining cells, and moved in a coordinated attempt toward the facility’s main gate.
Security personnel on guard responded swiftly, opening fire to prevent the mass escape. Four inmates were shot in the process. While two of the injured later died from gunshot wounds, the others are currently receiving medical attention and are reportedly in stable condition.
In an official statement released by the Governor’s office, Adeleke condemned the incident and emphasized the importance of securing correctional facilities across the state.
“This jailbreak is a serious breach of our correctional system and a wake-up call to further strengthen our security architecture. We cannot afford to let such incidents recur,” the statement read.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ongoing reforms in the state’s justice and correctional systems.
He referenced recent efforts to decongest overcrowded prisons, including a directive issued in 2023 to the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to review cases of inmates awaiting trial, especially those charged with minor offenses.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has pledged closer collaboration with the Nigeria Correctional Service to prevent further jailbreaks.
The NSCDC Commandant, Michael Adaralewa, stressed the importance of synergy among all security agencies to protect correctional institutions.
Authorities have since restored order at the Ilesa facility, and an investigation has been launched to determine the root cause of the incident and identify any security lapses.
Governor Adeleke called for calm among residents and assured the public that his administration is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and integrity of correctional institutions in the state.
