A transformer explosion near the Akwa Ibom State Custodial Centre has resulted in the death of two awaiting-trial inmates and left two others injured.
The incident occurred about two weeks ago after a high-voltage wire snapped and fell on a section of the facility, causing a surge that led to electrocution. The blast also plunged the centre into darkness and destroyed several electrical appliances.
The State Controller of Corrections, Frank Okonkwo, confirmed the deaths and described the event as tragic. He explained that the victims were thrown from where they were seated during the surge and were immediately taken to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
According to Okonkwo, both inmates were facing charges for conspiracy, kidnapping, and armed robbery, but remained legally presumed innocent. He said their families had been notified and that the centre would release the bodies once investigations were concluded.
He added that the explosion damaged appliances, computers, and residential quarters within the facility, including the home of the officer in charge. Okonkwo noted that the same transformer had malfunctioned in the past, though without casualties, and called for urgent government intervention to prevent another occurrence.
He also announced plans to introduce a rehabilitation and empowerment initiative for inmates who have completed skill-training programmes. About 30 participants will be selected from centres in Uyo, Ikot Abasi, Ikot Ekpene, and Eket to receive start-up materials in trades such as tailoring, carpentry, barbing, and welding to support their reintegration after release.
