The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has debunked the reports alleging poor feeding for inmates in custodial centres across the country.
A statement by Umar Abubakar, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Public Relations Officer, NCoS, said that the reports were misleading and false.
It reads "The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has been drawn to a recent publication alleging that inmates in custodial centres are being fed poorly .
"The Service categorically debunks this claim as false, misleading, and a gross misrepresentation of the realities within our facilities.
"For the avoidance of doubt, the publication is a recycled one which is pushed forward to create ruckus 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."
The statement also noted that the Federal Government recently increased daily feeding allowance for inmates.
"Also, 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 ₦1,125 per inmate per day.
"This adjustment is aimed at ensuring that inmates receive adequate and nutritious meals in line with acceptable welfare standards."the statement stated
The increment, it said, reflected 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 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." it stated