Over 200 Inmates Including Boko Haram Commanders Escape As Flood Collapses Maiduguri prison

Over 200 inmates, including several high-profile Boko Haram commanders, escaped from the Maiduguri New Prison in Borno State, Nigeria. The mass prison break was triggered by severe flooding that caused significant structural damage to the facility.

The torrential rains led to a devastating flood that breached the prison's security barriers and weakened its structural supports. A portion of the perimeter fence collapsed, providing an opportunity for the inmates to flee. An official from the Nigerian Correctional Center in Maiduguri, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the escape and highlighted the involvement of Boko Haram commanders among the escapees.

The flood, which struck Maiduguri and surrounding communities early Tuesday morning, left hundreds of residents stranded and caused widespread destruction and displacement.

Despite earlier assurances from the Borno State government about comprehensive preventive measures, the situation deteriorated rapidly.

Efforts are currently underway to recapture the escaped inmates, who are considered highly dangerous and potentially armed. The Nigerian Correctional Service spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, indicated that they are taking stock across the country and will provide further updates.

This incident is reminiscent of previous prison breaks in Nigeria, such as the April 2024 escape of 118 inmates from a facility near Abuja due to heavy rain, and the 2022 attack on an Abuja-based prison by Islamist fighters, which resulted in over 400 prisoners escaping.

The recent flood-induced prison break underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Nigeria's correctional facilities, particularly in terms of infrastructure resilience and security during natural disasters.