Correctional Service debunks claim of jail break in Benin

By Jethro Ibileke

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has debunked claim of alleged jail break in Benin, the Edo State capital published in an online publication.

The Service Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, a Chief Superintendent of Correction, in a statement on Tuesday, described the report as false, misleading. and completely unfounded.

“The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has been drawn to an online publication by Nigerian NewsDirect dated 24th January, 2026, titled “Jail Break in Benin Prison.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to state clearly, unequivocally, and categorically that the said report is false, misleading and completely unfounded. There has been no jailbreak, escape, or security breach in any custodial centre in Benin City or anywhere in Edo State.

Osuji noted that comprehensive checks and verifications conducted by the Edo State Command of the Service confirm that all inmates are fully accounted for, and custodial operations across the State remain secure, stable, and under effective control.

“It is particularly troubling that the said media organisation did not, at any time, reach out to the Nigerian Correctional Service, either at the State Command or National Headquarters, for verification before publishing such a grave allegation. This action runs contrary to the principles of professional journalism, fairness, and responsible reporting, especially on matters with serious public safety implications.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to assure the general public, especially residents of Benin City and Edo State, that: all custodial facilities in the State are secure; there is no threat whatsoever to public safety arising from any custodial centre; and, the Service remains fully committed to its statutory mandate of safe custody, security, and rehabilitation of inmates in line with international best practices.

“Members of the public are therefore urged to disregard the said publication in its entirety, as it is the handiwork of an unserious platform chasing sensational headlines rather than the truth.

“While the Nigerian Correctional Service respects the role of the media as partners in nation-building, it must be emphasized that the Service will not hesitate to invoke appropriate legal remedies against any individual or media organisation that publishes false, unverified, or malicious reports capable of causing public panic,
undermining national security, or damaging the image and integrity of the Service.

“Media organisations are once again advised to verify information from official sources before publication, particularly on sensitive security-related matters.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service remains open, transparent, and accessible to the media and will continue to provide timely and accurate information in the public interest,” she concluded.