Two inmates awaiting trial at the Uyo Custodial Centre in Akwa Ibom State died after a high-voltage wire snapped and struck the facility following a nearby transformer explosion. This tragic incident, which also injured two other inmates, occurred two weeks ago, triggering a massive blackout and causing extensive damage to the centre’s infrastructure, including the staff barracks and the official residence of the officer in charge. The high-tension wire dropped directly onto a section of the custodial facility, electrocuting the four inmates in total. The Controller of Corrections, Frank Okonkwo, confirmed the fatalities, calling the event “very unfortunate” and a significant loss, especially since the deceased—who were awaiting trial for conspiracy, kidnapping, and armed robbery—were presumed innocent. He reported that the two deceased men were thrown from where they were sitting and later pronounced dead at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, despite immediate first aid.
The damage included the destruction of all electrical appliances and computers in the facility. Officials from the power company (PHEDC) attributed the explosion to excessive voltage. Controller Okonkwo noted that the same transformer had been faulty previously, and he strongly urged authorities to address this recurring infrastructure issue to prevent future tragedies. Regarding the deceased, families have been contacted, but the command stated the corpses will only be released upon the completion of the ongoing investigation being conducted by the legal department. Looking forward, Controller Okonkwo also announced plans for a rehabilitation and empowerment program to provide selected inmates—convicts nearing discharge who successfully acquired skills like tailoring, carpentry, barbing, and welding while in custody—with start-up packs. This initiative, which relies on donor funding, aims to integrate the estimated 30 beneficiaries successfully into society and prevent them from reoffending.
