The Nigerian Correctional Service in Yobe State has declared a convicted inmate wanted after he escaped from custody following a road accident involving a prison vehicle.
The incident, which has raised fresh concerns about the safety of inmate transfers, occurred on April 13 along the Potiskum–Damaturu road in Yobe State.
According to an official statement issued on Wednesday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Adamu, the inmate fled the scene during efforts to rescue victims of the crash.
The statement confirmed that the escapee, identified as Dahiru Mohammed, was being transported from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Potiskum to Damaturu when the accident occurred.
“The general public is hereby notified that the Nigerian Correctional Service Yobe State command has confirmed the escape of an inmate from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Potiskum,” the statement said.
It explained that the vehicle conveying inmates was involved in a road traffic accident, creating confusion at the scene.
“The unfortunate incident occurred while efforts were being made to rescue the affected accident victims. The individual managed to flee the scene of the accident,” the command added.
The escapee, Mohammed, is 30 years old and hails from Askiwari village via Tarmuwa in Yobe State. He bears the prison number J/1539/24 and was admitted into custody on November 29, 2024.
Authorities have described him as dangerous and warned members of the public to avoid any contact with him.
“The escaped individual is considered dangerous and members of the public are advised not to have any personal dealings with him,” the statement warned.
The Correctional Service also called on residents to assist security agencies with useful information that could lead to his arrest.
“If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of this individual, or if you spotted anyone suspicious near the site of the accident on the Potiskum-Damaturu road, please report immediately to the nearest police station or correctional facility,” the statement said.
Emergency contact numbers were also provided to make reporting easier. These include lines connected to the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Potiskum and the Yobe State command headquarters.
The command further cautioned against harbouring the fugitive, stressing that doing so is a serious criminal offence under Nigerian law.
“Harbouring a fugitive is a serious criminal offence punishable by law. We appreciate the cooperation of the public in ensuring the swift return of the inmate to custody,” it added.
While details of the accident itself were not fully disclosed, the incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with transporting inmates across long distances, especially on busy highways.
Prison transfers are a routine part of correctional operations in Nigeria. Inmates are often moved between facilities for various reasons, including court appearances, security concerns, or relocation to other custodial centres.
However, such movements can expose both inmates and officials to risks, particularly in cases of road accidents or security breaches.
In recent years, there have been several cases of inmates escaping during transit or following attacks on correctional facilities. These incidents have raised questions about the level of security during inmate movements and the need for improved safety measures.
The situation in parts of northern Nigeria, including Yobe State, also adds to the complexity of security operations. The region has faced various security challenges over the years, making the movement of inmates even more sensitive.
Residents living along major highways, such as the Potiskum–Damaturu road, are now being urged to remain alert and report any suspicious movement to authorities.
Some residents expressed concern over the development, noting that an escaped inmate could pose a threat to communities if not quickly apprehended.
A trader in Potiskum, who spoke anonymously, said, “We just hope the authorities catch him quickly. People are worried because we don’t know what he might do.”
The Correctional Service has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to track down the fugitive. Security agencies are expected to intensify surveillance and patrols in the area as part of the search operation.
The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and emergency response during official operations. Accidents involving government vehicles, especially those carrying inmates or security personnel, can have serious consequences if not properly managed.
As the search continues, authorities have urged calm while assuring residents that all necessary steps are being taken to prevent any threat to public safety.
For now, the focus remains on locating and re-arresting the escaped inmate, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident are expected to continue.