The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCos) has confirmed a fire outbreak at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MaSCC) in Maiduguri, capital of Borno State. It, however, blamed a convicted terrorist, Charles Okah, for the incident, dismissing reports that the fire was sparked by a bomb explosion.
A report by security expert Zagazola Makama this Monday morning, April 21, 2025, quoted intelligence sources as insisting that, contrary to circulating claims, there was no bomb blast at the facility yesterday night (Sunday, April 20). “Authorities confirmed that the fire in Okah’s cell was self-inflicted after he allegedly ignited his mattress using a box of matches in an attempt to cause panic within the facility,” according to zagalo.org.
As per Zagalo:
“He lit up his bed and immediately began shouting from the window that there was a fire,” an official stated. “When officers arrived, we found the mattress burning and quickly extinguished the fire.” No further damage occurred to any part of the cell or the prison.
Following the incident, a search was conducted in the cell, during which a box of matches was recovered from Okah. He was immediately taken to the prison clinic for medical attention and is currently recuperating. The damaged mattress has been replaced.
“There is no evidence of any explosive device, and there was no external breach or attack on the facility,” the official added. “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.”
The authorities also dismissed rumors of absent night-duty officers, confirming that personnel responded swiftly to contain the situation and ensure the safety of other inmates.
When asked how the inmate gained access to matches, the authorities explained that Okah was allowed to attend church service due to the Easter celebration, which may have provided him access to the matches he used to set his bed on fire. Regarding the motive behind his actions, the authorities stated that Okah is a controversial inmate who frequently creates trouble and problems.
News Express reports that Charles Okah is serving a life sentence for his role in the October 1, 2010, Independence Day bombing near Eagle Square, Abuja, and a previous bombing in Warri, Delta State, on March 15, 2010. He has been held at the Maiduguri custodial facility since the middle of last month – specifically since March 16.
