The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Akwa Ibom State Command, has confirmed that two awaiting-trial inmates at the Uyo Custodial Centre died following an electrical surge from a faulty transformer.

Incident Details:

• Occurred two weeks ago when a nearby transformer exploded, causing a high-voltage wire to fall inside the facility.
• The explosion plunged the area into darkness, threw the inmates from their accommodation, and destroyed electrical appliances.
• Two staff members were injured, and the deceased were transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital but later confirmed dead.
• The victims were awaiting trial—one for conspiracy and kidnapping, the other for armed robbery.

Official Statements:

• Frank Okonkwo, Akwa Ibom State Controller of Corrections, described the event as “deeply unfortunate” and emphasized that the inmates remain presumed innocent until proven guilty.
• Families have been contacted, and the release of the bodies is pending investigation.
• The same transformer had previous faults, but without fatalities. Authorities have been called upon to prevent recurrence.

Ongoing Initiatives:

• NCoS is launching a rehabilitation and empowerment programme for inmates who completed vocational training.
• 30 beneficiaries across custodial centres in Uyo, Ikot Abasi, Ikot Ekpene, and Eket will receive start-up kits for trades such as tailoring, carpentry, welding, weaving, and pastry-making.
• The programme targets both male and female inmates to aid successful reintegration into society.