The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has denied the claims in some quarters that inmates in detention in custodial centres across the country are being fed poorly.
The Deputy Controller Correctional Service in-charge of Public Relation and Information,(DCC) Umar Danlami Abubakar in a press statement,issued to Journalists in Minna at the weekend, described the claims as false, misleading and gross misrepresentation of the realities within our facilities
According to the Deputy Controller,For the avoidance of doubt, the publication is a recycled one which is pushed forward to create rancours where none exists.
While responding to the same allegation on TVC News on 1st September 2024, "I highlighted that the Service 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. "
"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.
" Our menu plans are standardized and reviewed periodically to align with evolving health standards and budgetary provisions" Abubakar Umar explained.
Also, in response to current economic realities and rising inflation, the Federal Government of Nigeria, he explained, recently approved an increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates in custodial centres from the previous rate to ₦1,125 per inmate per day.
This adjustment according to him 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.
Abubakar pointed out that 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 Service urges members of the public and the media to verify information before dissemination and avoid sensationalism that undermines the hard work of our personnel as well as the integrity of the Service.
