The Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, has refuted allegations of poor feeding of inmates in custodial centres across the country.
The NCoS refuted the allegations in a statement by its spokesman, Umar Abubakar, on Sunday in Abuja. The agency described the claims as false and misleading.
The NCoS said it operates under strict guidelines as provided by the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, which mandates the provision of adequate nutrition, healthcare, and general welfare for all inmates.
It stated that inmates are provided with meals that meet the nutritional requirements recommended by health professionals and monitored routinely by the ration committee set up by the Controller General of Corrections.
The statement added that in response to current economic realities and rising inflation, the Federal Government of Nigeria has recently approved an increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates in custodial centres from the previous rate to N1,125 per inmate per day.
The agency reiterated that the adjustment is aimed at ensuring that inmates receive adequate and nutritious meals in line with acceptable welfare standards.
“The increment reflects the government’s commitment to the humane treatment of persons in custody and the broader reforms being implemented within the Nigerian Correctional Service to uphold dignity human rights and international best practices.
“Furthermore, the feeding of inmates is not conducted in secrecy as several independent oversight bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, civil society groups, and international partners, periodically assess the conditions in our custodial centres. None of their recent reports support the dehumanizing portrayal circulated by certain individuals or interest groups about the welfare of inmates.
“The general public is assured that the Service remains committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all inmates in line with international best practices,” the statement said.
The NCoS called on the public and the media to verify information before dissemination and avoid sensationalism that undermines the hard work of its personnel as well as the integrity of the Service.
