The Edo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, has launched a manhunt for an awaiting-trial inmate who escaped from court premises in the state.
It was gathered that the inmate, identified as Osita Thomas, was being held at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Auchi, pending trial for alleged conspiracy and stealing.
The 28-year-old Thomas was taken to court in Etsako West Local Government Area last week for trial, but the court declined to grant him bail.
He, however, escaped shortly after the court session.
According to report, the correctional officer who escorted him and other inmates to court could not pursue him for fear that the remaining inmates might also escape.
An official of the Service, who pleaded anonymity, blamed the incident on a shortage of personnel, disclosing that more than 1,000 correctional officers are expected to retire this year without plans to recruit replacements.
"The warden couldn't leave other inmates to pursue Osita as he will risk losing others. The dearth of manpower should be addressed now," the official said.
Confirming the incident, the spokesman of the Edo Command, Aminu Suleman, in a statement, said efforts have been intensified to recapture the fugitive.
"The Service solicits the cooperation of the general public to recapture the fugitive. Anyone with useful information about his whereabouts should contact the nearest custodial centre or police station, or call 08038075882 or 08039243704.
"The Controller of Corrections, Edo State Command, assures the general public that no effort will be spared to recapture the fugitive, while security of all inmates in custody has been strengthened," the statement said.
Awaiting-trial inmate escapes from court in Edo, NCoS launches manhunt