CORRUPTION AND INSTITUTIONAL COLLAPSE: A FIFTEEN-YEAR ANALYSIS (2010–2025) OF PRISON BREAKS IN NIGERIA'S CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES

Abstract

In criminology, punishment serves as a mechanism for addressing those who violate boundaries of tolerance typically through confinement in correctional centres in the form of custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration. This reflects a punitive philosophy of punishment. Prior to 2010, prison breaks in Nigeria were generally isolated incidents, lacking coordination or links to organised crime or insurgency. However, from 2010 onwards, the Nigeria Correctional System has encountered increasing challenges, particularly systemic corruption and frequent prison escapes, which threaten institutional credibility and national security. This study explored the relationship between corruption and prison breaks in Nigeria correctional facilities from 2010 to 2025. Utilising Routine Activity Theory and Broken Windows Theory, the research employed a mixed-method design, drawing on quantitative data and qualitative interviews from governmental and civil society sources. Results indicated a strong link between corruption-evidence in bribery, nepotism, embezzlement, and collusion with inmates and insider assistance in prison escapes, such as disabling surveillance, unlocking security systems, or bypassing perimeter checks. The study concluded by recommending better staff remuneration, anti-corruption training, enhanced digital surveillance, and strict enforcement of disciplinary procedures.