Tragedy strikes Uyo Custodial Centre after transformer fault
A fatal explosion at a transformer located near the Uyo Custodial Centre in Akwa Ibom State has claimed the lives of two inmates who were awaiting trial, the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed. The blast, which occurred about two weeks ago, also injured others and caused significant damage across the facility.
According to the NCoS Controller in Akwa Ibom, Frank Okonkwo, a high-voltage wire snapped during the explosion, falling directly into part of the prison compound. The sudden surge electrocuted several individuals, including the two dead inmates, and resulted in a total blackout.
Details on casualties and damage reported
Okonkwo said the explosion caused “unfortunate loss of life” and widespread destruction. Appliances like computers and other electrical equipment were damaged, while even staff quarters and the barracks were affected.
He added that the two inmates were immediately rushed to University of Uyo Teaching Hospital but were later pronounced dead by medical personnel. The inmates, he revealed, were on trial for conspiracy, kidnapping, and armed robbery, though he stressed that they remained presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Injuries extend beyond inmates
Beyond the fatalities, Okonkwo confirmed that two staff members at the custodial centre were injured in the incident. He lamented the extent of the damage, saying the explosion destroyed essential infrastructure, including the official residence of the officer in charge.
Previous safety concerns raised
The prison controller disclosed that the same transformer had been problematic in the past. He called on relevant authorities — including power distribution companies — to take urgent action to prevent a recurrence of such a catastrophic incident. Okonkwo expressed deep concern over the safety of both staff and inmates, urging for regular maintenance and safety checks on electrical infrastructure around custodial facilities.
Investigation and response underway
In response to the tragedy, the legal department of the NCoS has launched an investigation into the causes and failures that led to the explosion. Okonkwo stressed that a “comprehensive report” will be presented once the findings are concluded, adding that they are working to ensure accountability and safety improvements.
He also said that the families of the deceased have been notified, and one family has already started the process of retrieving the bodies, which will be released only after the investigation is completed.
Calls for infrastructure overhaul and rehabilitation efforts
The tragedy has reignited calls for better infrastructure and prison reform across Nigeria’s custodial centres. Civil society groups and human rights activists say the incident underscores the need for urgent investment in safe power systems and emergency protocols in prisons.
Okonkwo also announced plans to strengthen rehabilitation. He said the NCoS intends to roll out a skills-acquisition and empowerment program for inmates who have completed vocational training, with a focus on those soon to be discharged.
He added that about 30 inmates will benefit from the programme, which will include training in trades such as tailoring, carpentry, welding, and barbing. The goal, he said, is to reduce recidivism by equipping ex-convicts with means to earn a dignified living.
Experts demand preventive measures
Security experts and correctional reform advocates are demanding that power distribution companies and prison authorities work together to ensure that similar disasters are prevented in other facilities. They argue that infrastructure audits, maintenance contracts, and rigorous safety standards must be prioritized, especially in correctional centres with high-risk populations.
For now, the Akwa Ibom NCoS Command continues to mourn the loss, while families and the public await the outcome of the ongoing investigation. The incident marks yet another urgent reminder of the vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s prison infrastructure and the need for systemic reform.
