Victor EzejaThe Nigerian Correctional Service centre in Kuje, Abuja came under heavy bomb attack by gunmen suspected to be terrorists on Tuesday night.
The attack on the prison facility reportedly occured around 10:27 p.m. with bomb explosions and gun shots.
An official of the State Security Services was said to have warned earlier of impending attack on the facility, but it is not clear the level efforts made to pr vent the attack.
In a statement on Wednesday morning, the correctional centre spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, confirmed the attack.
The statement titled, “Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje attacked by gunmen” reads, “I wish to confirm that at about 2200hrs, some yet-to-be-identified gunmen attacked the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, in the Federal Capital Territory.
“However, men of the Armed Squad of the Nigerian Correctional Service and other security agencies attached to the Custodial Centre have responded and calm has been restored to the facility and the situation is under control.
“Other details will be made available soon.”
The custodial centre is located in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), about 47 kilometres to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
Dangerous criminals including Boko Haram terrorists are being held in the prison facility together with other convicted criminals and those standing trials for various offences.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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