An inmate awaiting trial, Osita Thomas, escaped from the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Edo State during a court appearance for conspiracy and stealing.
The escape took place while Thomas was in custody at the court in Edo, where he was scheduled to face charges of conspiracy and theft. According to local reports, he managed to slip away from the security detail that was present during the proceedings.
Thomas was being held at the correctional facility pending a trial on the alleged offences. The incident has raised concerns about the security protocols in place during court appearances for inmates in Nigeria.
Police and court officials are reportedly conducting a search for the fugitive. Authorities have urged the public to provide any information that could help locate Thomas and prevent further breaches of security.
Incidents of escape during court appearances are rare in Nigeria, but they highlight ongoing challenges in the country's criminal justice and correctional systems.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>