Transformer explosion at a power facility serving Uyo custodial center kills two awaiting-trial male inmates and injures officials, triggering major damage.
An overloaded power transformer exploded near a major custodial facility in Uyo, southern Nigeria, killing two awaiting-trial inmates and injuring at least two prison officials, authorities confirmed on Monday November 17, 2025. The blast sent shockwaves through the Uyo Medium Custodial Centre, destroying key infrastructure and damaging nearby buildings.
The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) said the transformer, located along Metro Road and supplying electricity to parts of the Deputy Governor’s Lodge and the prison, failed under heavy voltage. The resulting explosion destroyed electrical systems, appliances and offices inside the custodial complex, leaving a trail of damage estimated in billions of naira.
A second transformer positioned along Effiong Udo Akpan Street, close to the first blast site, was also affected.
Frank Okonkwo, Controller of Corrections in Akwa Ibom State, said the custodial center was the “worst hit.” Speaking during a visit by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, he described the moment the blast struck, explaining that the force lifted the two victims from where they were seated.
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The inmates, who were awaiting trial for alleged kidnapping, conspiracy and armed robbery, were rushed to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. Despite emergency care, they were pronounced dead shortly after arrival. “They died after first aid was administered, and the doctor later confirmed them dead,” Okonkwo said, describing the deaths as a “very unfortunate” loss.
He stressed that although the men faced serious charges, they were still legally presumed innocent. He added that the families had been contacted, and one had begun the process of reclaiming a body, though the NCoS would only release the remains after formal investigations were completed.
Beyond the loss of life, the blast inflicted extensive material damage. The controller said the surge destroyed computers, electrical appliances, staff barracks and the residence of the officer in charge. Officials of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), he noted, attributed the incident to excessive voltage running through the transformer.
“It was a big loss—both to the families and to our facility,” Okonkwo said, adding that the custodial center was still assessing the full scale of destruction.
The incident has renewed concern over electrical infrastructure and safety in Nigeria, where overloaded transformers and unstable power distribution frequently lead to fires, outages and equipment failures. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blast and the extent of responsibility of the utility company.
