The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed reports alleging that inmates are being starved and dying of hunger in custodial centres across the country.
Reacting to the claims on Tuesday, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, described the reports as false, misleading and lacking factual basis.
“The allegation that inmates are dying of hunger is completely unfounded. There is no record from any of our custodial centres suggesting that inmates are being starved or dying due to lack of food,” Umar said during a media briefing in Abuja.
He stressed that the Federal Government makes annual budgetary provisions for the feeding of inmates and that these funds are expended under strict supervision in line with the Service’s operational guidelines.
“Every inmate in our custody is entitled to three meals a day — breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is a standard that is observed across all our facilities,” he added.
Umar also questioned the credibility of reports that claim journalists interviewed inmates inside custodial centres, describing such narratives as fabricated.
“These are high-security zones. The idea that a journalist could casually access these facilities with recording devices is not only far-fetched but also completely untrue,” he said.
He noted that the Service operates a robust accountability system, where any officer found negligent is sanctioned appropriately, adding that despite current economic realities, the welfare of inmates remains a top priority.
Umar further advised media practitioners to seek clarification from credible sources before going public with sensitive reports.
“Journalism should be grounded in accuracy and responsibility. Publishing unverified stories not only misleads the public but also erodes trust in public institutions,” he said.
He revealed that upon assuming office, the current administration increased the allocation for inmate feeding by 50 per cent as part of its commitment to improve conditions in correctional centres.
“Our facilities are open to oversight visits by relevant stakeholders, including civil society organisations and the media. We welcome constructive engagement and are committed to the humane and dignified treatment of all inmates,” Umar added.
He reiterated that the NCoS remains focused on its broader mandate of reform and rehabilitation, urging continued public support in building a more effective correctional system.
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