No Bomb Blast in Maiduguri Prison; Fire in Okah’s Cell Was Self-Inflicted – Authorities

By: Zagazola Makama

The Nigerian Correctional Service has debunked reports of a bomb explosion at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MaSCC) in Maiduguri, describing the incident involving detainee Charles Okah as a false alarm.

Intelligence sources informed Zagazola Makama that, contrary to circulating claims, there was no bomb blast at the facility on Sunday night. 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.

“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.

Mr. Charles Okah has been held at the Maiduguri custodial facility since March 16, 2025.

No Bomb Blast in Maiduguri Prison; Fire in Okah’s Cell Was Self-Inflicted – Authorities

Fire Guts Water Board IDP Camp in Monguno, Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

A devastating fire broke out at the Water Board IDP Camp in Monguno Local Government Area (LGA) on April 19, 2025, destroying approximately one hundred thatch and makeshift houses.

Eye witnesses said that the fire started at around 1040hrs and rapidly spread across the settlement, burning household items, foodstuffs, and other valuable properties to ashes.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and the value of the property destroyed is still being assessed.

Humanitarian officials were immediately deployed to the scene to maintain crowd control and prevent looting, while firefighters, alongside camp residents, worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames.
Fortunately, no casualties or loss of life were reported.

Fire Guts Water Board IDP Camp in Monguno, Borno

Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has presented working tools to 150 almajirai students trained in vocational skills by his administration.

The training covered a variety of trades, including electrical installation and repair work, solar installation and repair work, leatherwork, welding, carpentry and building construction.

The initiative also includes cash support to enable beneficiaries to start their trades and contribute to the society’s development.

It seeks to enhance individual capabilities, uplift communities and provide almajirai with sustainable pathways to economic independence.

Delivering his address, Governor Zulum emphasised that his administration would continue to foster opportunities for the almajiri learners to secure a brighter future.

“By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step towards securing your future; equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into
reality.

“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our Government remains fully committed to supporting the Sangaya Islamic education. We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he stated.

Zulum, however, expressed concern about the rising cases of molestation of children in the guise of teaching Islamic education.

He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to address a critical concern: the safety and well-being of our Sangaya learners. I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri. Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.

“Our commitment to safeguarding children extends beyond the Almajiri; it encompasses all children. We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces every child without prejudice. This pledge is not merely a statement; it is a call to action for every parent, educator, and community leader to safeguard the rights of our Sangaya learners.”

Speaking earlier, the chairman of Borno Sangaya Board, Kalifa Aliyu Ahmad Abulfatahi, said the programme was unveiled in 2023 as part of Zulum’s resolve to address the challenges faced by almajiri children who are traditionally engaged in Islamic schooling and often lack access to formal education and opportunities.

Sheikh Kalifa noted that the training was organised in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board.

Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, who was represented by the Special Adviser in the ministry, Dr Bukar Tijjani, said that besides the  training, the ministry had partnered with colleges, including the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies, to provide certification for almajiri learners.

Zulum was accompanied by the members of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba and Hon Usman Zannah, the State APC Chairman, Hon Bello Ayuba, Shehu of Borno, ably represented among other dignitaries.

Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills