Nigerian Authorities Overhaul Delta Prison Staff After SaharaReporters' Exposé on Prison Sneak Out for Robbery

Nigerian Authorities Overhaul Delta Prison Staff After SaharaReporters' Exposé on Prison Sneak Out for Robbery

LAGOS, NIGERIA - In a dramatic and swift response, Nigerian authorities have replaced the entire staff of Okere Prison in Delta State. This decisive action follows a shocking exposé by SaharaReporters, which uncovered a clandestine operation where inmates were sneaking out to commit robberies before returning to the facility undetected.

The Exposé That Shook the Nation

The investigative report by SaharaReporters revealed a disturbing incident on January 3, 2025, where armed assailants attacked a young man in Benin City, Edo State. They stole valuable items and transferred N4 million to an online bank account. The trail led investigators to the Udu area of Delta State, where they arrested the account holder. She confessed that her boyfriend, who orchestrated the crime, was an inmate at Okere Prison.

Corruption and Complicity

The exposé further revealed that corrupt prison officials were allegedly accepting bribes to allow inmates to leave the facility for criminal activities. Engr. Udoka Emmanuel Chika-Dibie, Executive Assistant (Security) to the Delta State Governor, confirmed these allegations. "Inmates left prison custody, travelled to Benin City, robbed a victim, and returned to the prison as if nothing happened," he stated.

Swift Action by Authorities

In response to the exposé, Nigerian authorities swiftly replaced all staff members at Okere Prison. However, the new officials reportedly refused to release three additional suspects to the police for further investigation, igniting widespread outrage and calls for urgent reforms within Nigeria's correctional system.

Public Outcry and Calls for Reform

Public affairs analyst Comrade Israel Joe condemned the actions of the Okere Prison authorities and warned of mass protests if the suspects are not handed over. "Those sentenced to death inside the prison come out to rob and kidnap, then return to the prison to live large," Joe lamented. The case has highlighted the urgent need for systemic changes to prevent such incidents in the future.

The overhaul of the Delta Prison staff following SaharaReporters' exposé is a significant step towards addressing corruption and complicity within Nigeria's correctional system. As the investigation continues, the hope is that this action will lead to lasting reforms and a safer, more just society.