An inmate of the Benin Central Prison escaped yesterday from the headquarters of the Edo State Prison Service.
The inmate was taken to the prison headquarters to do menial work when he fled.
It was learnt that the inmate escaped through the famous Benin Moat behind the prison headquarters.
Officials at the prison headquarters said the inmate did not escape through the main gate.
Sources said the prison official who was supposed to guard the inmate went to eat when the prisoner fled.
Several prison officials were seen searching the adjoining streets and the moat.
State Comptroller Effiom Etowa could not be reached for comments.
But a source said a report had not been filed.