The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has debunked viral reports of a bomb explosion at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MaSCC) in Maiduguri, Borno State, clarifying that it was incident involving a convicted detainee, Charles Okah, who deliberate ignited a mattress and raised false fire alarm.
Authorities stated that Okah allegedly ignited his mattress using a box of matches in a deliberate attempt to cause panic within the prison.
“He lit up his bed and immediately began shouting from the window that there was a fire,” an official disclosed.
“When officers arrived, we found the mattress burning and quickly extinguished the fire.”
The swift response prevented any further damage to the cell or the facility.
Following the incident, a search of Okah’s cell yielded a box of matches.
He was immediately taken to the prison clinic for medical evaluation and is currently recuperating. The damaged mattress has since been replaced.
“There is no evidence of any explosive device, and there was no external breach or attack on the facility,” the official emphasised.
“If there had been a bomb blast in Okah’s cell, how come nothing happened to him? He is still the one screaming that there was a fire in his cell.”
Authorities also dismissed rumours of absent night-duty officers, affirming that personnel responded promptly to contain the situation and ensure the safety of other inmates.
Addressing how Okah obtained matches, the authorities explained that he was permitted to attend church service due to the Easter celebration, which may have provided an opportunity to acquire the matches used to set his bed ablaze.
Regarding his motive, officials described Okah as a “controversial inmate who frequently creates trouble and problems”.
Charles Okah has been in custody at the Maiduguri custodial facility since March 16, 2025.
He was convicted for the Independence Day bombing at the Eagles Square in Abuja which happened when President Goodluck Jonathan was in power.
