Two convicts, identified by security sources as politically exposed suspects, allegedly escaped from the Security Custodial Centre in Jimeta, Yola.
Security services are reportedly conducting a manhunt for the fugitives, who were transported to the Jimeta Custodial Centre roughly three weeks ago after a security operation on suspected political thugs in the Mubi axis.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri launched the raid while addressing identified criminal networks reportedly related to political violence and other violent crimes in the area during a visit there, calling for their dissolution.
Fintiri, who promised at the time that his administration would not spare those responsible for violence and unrest, is claimed to be enraged at the suspects’ escape.
According to sources, operatives from the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps began their search for the suspects largely at his request.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has refused to respond to queries about the disappearance of two individuals from its custody.
Reporters who visited the service’s state headquarters in Jimeta, Yola, have repeatedly been unable to talk with managers since news of the development broke last Thursday.
On that day, the state Comptroller, Abduljalil Odunlami Ajani, was said to be on an official inspection tour.
The following day, Friday, reporters met with the Deputy Public Relations Officer, who stated that he lacked the authority to comment on the situation.
On Monday morning, on another visit to the state headquarters, reporters were informed that the comptroller was not in the office and that the PRO was not well.