By Femi Ayodele
AKURE: Panic and confusion gripped the town of Akure in Ondo State as a suspected Islamic armed sect attacked the local prison, resulting in the escape of 175 inmates. The incident occurred at approximately 5 am when the sect members stormed the prison gate, taking advantage of the shift changeover of guards and police personnel.
According to authoritative sources, the sect arrived in five vehicles, heavily armed and equipped with sophisticated weapons. They launched a coordinated assault on the prison, overpowering the guards and police. After successfully freeing their fellow members, the assailants fled the scene using the Ode-Akure expressway as their escape route.
Eyewitnesses, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the attack on June 13, 2013, had caused chaos in the area. Residents in the vicinity were caught off guard and ran in all directions, seeking safety to avoid potential harm or loss of life.
Although the police and prison guards attempted to repel the armed sect, their efforts were hampered by the shift changeover of personnel. The attackers took advantage of this situation and executed their operation swiftly and effectively.
Among the escaped inmates was Mr. Ogbebor Promise, who had been remanded in Akure Prison in September 2012 by an Akure Magistrate Court. Promise, had faced charges of homosexuality, allegedly engaging in a same-sex relationship with Mr. Odi Boma, a lorry driver. The pair had been caught kissing by local youths along the roadside.
Concerns have been raised by a septuagenarian named Pa. Oboh Joe, who appealed for assistance in locating Ogbebor Promise. Joe, a friend of Promise’ deceased father, expressed worries about the young man’s safety. Promise ,has reportedly gone into hiding to evade the penalties associated with his alleged homosexual practices.
Under Nigerian law, homosexuality is considered a crime, punishable by a 14-year prison sentence. It is believed that Promise, aware of the potential consequences he may face, has chosen to flee the country in order to live in a jurisdiction where such acts are allowed.
The prison attack has raised serious concerns about security measures and the ability of law enforcement agencies to effectively counter such incidents. The authorities have initiated investigations into the attack, and efforts are underway to locate and apprehend the escaped inmates.
The search for Ogbebor Promise remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining security and addressing issues of criminal activity within the country.
