Tragic Transformer Explosion Claims Lives at Uyo Prison
A devastating transformer explosion has resulted in the death of two awaiting trial inmates at the Uyo Custodial Centre in Akwa Ibom State. The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed the tragic incident that occurred two weeks ago but was officially announced on Thursday, November 13.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The explosion originated from a faulty transformer located near the correctional facility. According to official reports, the transformer exploded with such force that it caused a high-voltage wire to snap and fall within the prison premises. This resulted in severe electrocution that proved fatal for two inmates.
Akwa Ibom State Controller of Corrections, Frank Okonkwo, expressed deep regret over the incident during his confirmation statement. He revealed that the victims were thrown up from where they were sitting when the electrical accident occurred. Prison medical personnel immediately administered first aid before rushing the injured inmates to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
Aftermath and Investigation
The explosion caused significant damage beyond the tragic loss of life. All electrical appliances at the custodial centre were damaged or destroyed, including computers and other essential equipment. The incident also triggered a blackout in the surrounding area and affected the staff barracks, including the official residence of the officer in charge.
Okonkwo disclosed that officials from the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) investigated the incident and attributed the explosion to excessive voltage. The controller also noted that this wasn't the first time the transformer had malfunctioned, having experienced similar issues a few years earlier.
The deceased inmates were awaiting trial for serious criminal charges including conspiracy, kidnapping, and armed robbery. However, Okonkwo emphasized that they remained presumed innocent until proven otherwise by the court.
Families of the deceased have been contacted, with one family already completing the necessary procedures for corpse retrieval. The correctional service stated that the bodies would only be released after completing their investigations. The legal department is currently conducting a comprehensive investigation and will present its findings accordingly.
Preventive Measures and Rehabilitation Plans
Controller Okonkwo called on relevant authorities to address the transformer issue permanently to prevent future recurrences. Meanwhile, the correctional service is planning a rehabilitation and empowerment program for inmates nearing discharge.
The program aims to provide start-up packs for inmates who have acquired valuable skills during their custody, including:
- Tailoring
- Carpentry
- Barbing
- Welding
Initially targeting 30 inmates from various custodial centres including Uyo, Ikot Abasi, Ikot Ekpene, and Eket, the program focuses on convicts scheduled for discharge between now and December. This initiative seeks to ensure successful reintegration into society and reduce recidivism rates.
Okonkwo described the incident as "a big loss, both to themselves and to the inmates, especially when they were just awaiting trial", highlighting the tragic circumstances surrounding the preventable accident.
