The management of the Imo State Custodial Centre has debunked a viral report circulating online, dismissing claims of an attack or inmate escape at the facility.
According to the Public Relations Officer for the Centre, CSC Goodluck Uboegbulam, who issued a statement on Thursday in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, there is no truth to the alarming report making rounds on social media.
The false report, which trended on Facebook, alleged that Fulani herdsmen had stormed the Owerri Custodial Centre, freeing dozens of inmates.
However, Uboegbulam clarified that the report was baseless and should be disregarded.
He said, “Good morning esteemed officers, please I wish to bring to our notice of a disturbing fake news making rounds on the internet about an attack on Owerri custodial centre.
“I wish to inform us that it’s all fake and unfounded, Owerri custodial centre is cool and calm, all officers have been put on red alert. Please disregard the news, it’s fake, thank you. CSC Goodluck Uboegbulam CPRO Imo command”.
Uboegbulam further assured the public that both inmates and officers at the centre are safe, emphasizing that the viral narrative is entirely fabricated.
The misleading report had alleged that “A prison break is currently unfolding in Owerri, Imo State, as no fewer than 50 armed Fulani herdsmen have reportedly attacked the Owerri Correctional Facility.
The attackers are said to have freed at least 70 Fulani herdsmen who were being held in custody for allegedly killing local farmers in the state.”
It went further to claim that the facility was emptied as all inmates had escaped, a claim the authorities have firmly denied.
The PUNCH reported that the centre is constantly guarded by military personnel and an armoured tank stationed at the entrance, supported by other security agencies.
Additionally, the road leading to the facility has remained closed to traffic since the April 1, 2021, attack during the #EndSARS demonstrations.
Contrary to the false report, regular movement and business activities were observed around the custodial centre and across Owerri city.
