A tragic incident occurred at the Uyo custodial centre in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria, resulting in the loss of two lives. According to the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) Command in Akwa Ibom, the deaths were caused by a faulty electricity transformer. NCoS Controller, Mr Frank Okonkwo, confirmed the incident, stating that the transformer’s explosion led to a high voltage wire snapping and dropping onto the facility, causing a total blackout.

The explosion, which occurred a fortnight ago, also injured two staff members and damaged electrical appliances. The two deceased victims, who were awaiting trial, were thrown off their seats during the incident and were later pronounced dead by doctors at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. The NCoS has contacted the families of the deceased and expressed regret over the unfortunate event.

The incident highlights the need for regular maintenance and inspection of electrical infrastructure to prevent such tragedies. The NCoS has urged the relevant authorities to address the issue of the faulty transformer to prevent future incidents. The deaths of the two inmates are a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in custody.

The Nigeria Correctional Service has a responsibility to provide a secure and safe environment for inmates and staff. The incident is a setback to the service’s efforts to reform and rehabilitate individuals in its care. The NCoS will likely conduct an investigation into the incident to determine the cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident has also raised concerns about the state of infrastructure in Nigeria’s correctional facilities. The government has been urged to invest in the maintenance and upgrade of facilities to prevent such incidents. The deaths of the two inmates are a tragic reminder of the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure in Nigeria’s correctional system.