- A faulty transformer caused a deadly explosion inside the Uyo correctional centre, killing two inmates.
- The NCoS said the transformer blast also injured two staff and damaged electrical appliances.
- Authorities confirmed the victims were thrown from their seats before doctors declared them dead.
- The NCoS appealed for urgent repairs to prevent future correctional centre safety risks.
The Nigeria Correctional Service has confirmed that two inmates at the Uyo correctional centre died following a transformer explosion that struck the facility.
The state Controller of NCoS, Frank Okonkwo, told journalists in Uyo on Thursday that the tragic event was triggered by a faulty transformer located near the centre.
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Okonkwo explained that a high-voltage wire snapped after the transformer malfunctioned, plunging the entire facility into darkness and sending a dangerous electrical surge into the compound. Two staff members were also injured, and several electrical appliances were damaged.
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According to him, the impact was immediate and devastating.
He said, “There was an explosion at a nearby transformer a fortnight ago. The high-voltage wire fell within the facility, and during the surge, the two deceased inmates were thrown up from where they sat. Doctors at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital later confirmed them dead.”
The NCoS chief described the incident as deeply painful and said the families of the victims had been notified.
He added, “We are heartbroken that a transformer fault could lead to the loss of two inmates. We are urging the relevant authorities to urgently address the faulty transformer so that this kind of tragedy never happens again.”
The NCoS said its priority remains the safety of inmates and staff, emphasising that the transformer poses a continuous risk if left unattended.
