Explosion, Fire Reported in Maiduguri Prison Cell Holding Convicted Bomber Charles Okah

A suspected bomb explosion has reportedly rocked the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MaSCC) in Maiduguri on the night of Sunday, April 20, 2025, around 9 pm, sparking a fire in the solitary confinement cell of Charles Okah, a convicted bomber. According to initial reports from within the prison, an object, possibly a bomb, was thrown into Okah’s cell through the open window bars.

Eyewitnesses describe heavy smoke billowing from the cell, where Okah has been held since March 16, 2025. The explosion follows an open letter he sent to Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi-Ojo, accusing custodial centres in Maiduguri of widespread judicial and official corruption.

Sources on the scene reported hearing Okah coughing and choking as the smoke filled the room, with his screams echoing across the compound. He allegedly shouted that the explosive device had been thrown into his cell, igniting the fire that engulfed his quarters.

At the time of reporting, no rescue efforts had been initiated. Prison sources revealed that strict security protocols require a lengthy bureaucratic process before a cell can be opened after hours, leaving Okah’s fate uncertain as the fire continues to rage.

“Shockingly, not a single fire extinguisher could be found anywhere within the prison compound,” one source said. “And the night-duty prison officers appear to be absent. Many inmates with medical emergencies, such as those suffering from asthma, are at risk of dying before any help can arrive at dawn.”

With no immediate response to the fire or medical crises, there are growing concerns among inmates that a larger disaster may be unfolding. Prison officials also face the looming possibility of a prison break, as panicked inmates, alarmed by the fire and lack of assistance, may attempt to break out of their cells in an effort to escape the smoke and flames.

Efforts to reach Abubakar Umar, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service, for comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages.

Charles Okah is currently serving a life sentence for his involvement in the October 1, 2010, Independence Day bombing near Eagle Square in Abuja, as well as a previous bombing in Warri, Delta State, on March 15, 2010.