Two Inmates Die in Uyo Custodial Centre Transformer Incident

The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Akwa Ibom State Command, has verified the passing of two individuals who were awaiting trial at the...

The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Akwa Ibom State Command, has verified the passing of two individuals who were awaiting trial at the Uyo Custodial Centre after an electrical surge occurred due to a malfunctioning transformer that exploded close to the facility.

A heartbreaking event took place roughly two weeks back, which is said to have plunged the whole region into darkness when a high-tension cable broke and fell inside the prison grounds, causing significant electrical damage and loss of life.

Speaking to members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, the State Controller of Corrections, Mr. Frank Okonkwo, referred to the event as "very unfortunate," revealing that two prisoners died, two employees were injured, and multiple electrical systems in the institution were damaged.

When the transformer detonated, PHEDC representatives stated it was caused by high voltage. The power surge impacted our entire site, damaging equipment, computers, and even the home of the officer overseeing the area.

"The most heartbreaking part was losing two prisoners who were thrown from their seats in the event. Our medical team provided immediate assistance and took them to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where they were later confirmed deceased," Okonkwo said.

Okonkwo stated that the deceased individuals were pending trial on charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and armed robbery, emphasizing that they were considered innocent until proven guilty in court.

He verified that the families of the deceased had been informed. One family has finished the required paperwork for the body's release, pending the completion of official inquiries.

"It was a significant loss for both the institution and the families involved. The same transformer had experienced issues a few years prior, although no lives were lost at that time. We are urging the appropriate authorities to quickly tackle this repeated issue to avoid a similar incident in the future," he added.

The Supervisor mentioned that the NCoS legal team has initiated a complete inquiry regarding the issue and will provide an in-depth report upon completion.

He, however, revealed plans from the command to introduce a rehabilitation and support program for prisoners who have successfully finished vocational training while incarcerated.

"We intend to assist approximately 30 prisoners who are set to be released by the end of the year. They have developed expertise in areas such as sewing, woodworking, hairdressing, welding, weaving, and baking. With the assistance of donors and collaborating organizations, we will offer them initial support packages to aid their return to society and prevent them from committing further offenses," he explained.

Okonkwo stated that the program is gender-aware, ensuring that female prisoners receive the same training and empowerment benefits as others.

"We hope they rejoin society as productive individuals, not as habitual criminals," he stated.

A neighbor of the center who saw the tragic event believes the Akwa Ibom incident highlights the critical need for better power infrastructure and safety measures at public facilities, particularly correctional centers that accommodate vulnerable individuals.

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