The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Yobe State Command, has declared a convicted inmate wanted after he escaped following a road accident while being transported between correctional facilities.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Adamu, confirmed the development in an official statement released on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the inmate escaped on April 13 when a vehicle conveying prisoners from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Potiskum to Damaturu was involved in a road traffic accident.
Adamu explained that the escape occurred during rescue efforts at the crash scene.
“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.
“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 escaped inmate has been identified as Dahiru Mohammed, a 30-year-old man from Askiwari village via Tarmuwa. He bears prison number J/1539/24 and was admitted into custody on November 29, 2024.
Authorities described the fugitive 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 command cautioned.
The correctional service urged anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to report immediately to the nearest police station or correctional facility.
Residents were also asked to report any suspicious individuals seen around the Potiskum–Damaturu road where the accident occurred.
Emergency contact numbers released by the command include 07038397460, 07063348987, the MSCC Potiskum Duty Office on 08062211873, and the Yobe State Command headquarters on 08038452982.
Officials further warned that assisting or harbouring the fugitive is a criminal offence.
“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,” the statement added.
