The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly refuted recent allegations of poor feeding conditions in its custodial centres, affirming that such claims do not reflect the Service’s commitment to the welfare of inmates.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja, the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) Abubakar Umar, addressed the issue, emphasizing the NCoS’s ongoing dedication to the reform, rehabilitation, and care of those in custody.
The allegations arose after a viral video surfaced, purportedly showing inmates at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar, Cross River State, being served inadequately cooked beans as breakfast. In response, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered an immediate investigation into the matter.
Umar reiterated the Service’s mission, noting that it is centered on correcting the behavior of inmates through modification and skill acquisition programs.
“The name change of our institution to the Nigeria Correctional Service signifies a philosophy of correction, aiming to reform those in our custody,” Umar stated.
He highlighted that the NCoS’s approach goes beyond addressing the concerns raised in the viral video, focusing also on the broader issue of inmate dignity.
This includes ensuring that inmates receive adequate medical attention and holistic care.
Umar noted, “The allegation is being thoroughly investigated as directed by the Minister of Interior. Until the investigation is complete, we cannot confirm or deny the authenticity of the video.”
He added that the NCoS is actively working to modernize the inherited colonial-era penal system, aligning it with contemporary standards of penal administration.
“We make bold to say that, for several years, there has been no internal insurrection within our system,” Umar said. “This reflects the trust we’ve built with the inmates and our commitment to their welfare.”
Addressing the issue of inmate feeding, Umar acknowledged that the feeding allowance for inmates has undergone recent reviews and revisions.
“The government has increased the feeding allowance for inmates by 50 percent,” he explained.
“This is the first step in improving the feeding system in our custodial centres, which will be further augmented by products from our farm centres across the Federation.”
Umar also emphasized the NCoS’s broader reformation and rehabilitation efforts, which include valuable skill acquisition programs such as agricultural training.
These initiatives are designed to empower inmates for successful reintegration into society.
ALSO READ: Tinubu’s govt honest about fuel subsidies, deregulation — Presidency
Additionally, Umar credited the Interior Minister for his role in driving reforms within the NCoS, particularly in upgrading, renovating, and constructing new custodial centres.
“If you visit the Kuje Custodial Centre today, it serves as a prototype for the improvements we plan to replicate across other centres in the Federation,” he said.
The NCoS remains committed to its mandate of ensuring the welfare of all inmates, while also striving to reform and rehabilitate those in its care, ultimately contributing to the nation’s internal security.
(NAN)
