A devastating transformer explosion has claimed the lives of two awaiting-trial inmates at the Uyo Custodial Centre in Akwa Ibom State, leaving several others injured and raising fresh concerns about safety standards in correctional facilities.
The incident, which occurred two weeks ago, was triggered by a faulty transformer situated close to the custodial centre. According to officials, a high-tension cable suddenly snapped and fell directly on a section of the facility, instantly electrocuting the victims.
The blast threw the inmates violently from where they were seated, plunging the entire centre into darkness and destroying computers, electrical appliances and other equipment.
Confirming the tragedy on Thursday, the Akwa Ibom State Controller of Corrections, Frank Okonkwo, described the incident as “deeply unfortunate,” noting that despite being held for serious offences—including conspiracy, kidnapping and armed robbery—the deceased were still presumed innocent under the law.
Okonkwo explained that the inmates were immediately rushed to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital by the facility’s medical team but were pronounced dead on arrival. Two others survived with injuries.
He added that families of the deceased had been notified, with one already concluding paperwork to retrieve the body. However, the custodial service says no corpse will be released until ongoing investigations are completed.
“When the explosion occurred at the transformer, PHEDC officials came and said the cause was excessive voltage. The damage was massive—our computers, electrical appliances, everything was destroyed. It has been a huge loss for the centre and a tragic blow to the families affected,” Okonkwo lamented.
The incident has since sparked renewed debate over the safety of correctional facilities, especially those located near high-risk electrical installations.
