The Nigerian Correctional Service has categorically denied widespread reports alleging that inmates in the nation’s custodial centres are suffering from hunger or dying due to poor feeding conditions.
Speaking during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, described the claims as “misleading, sensational, and grossly inaccurate.”
Umar stated that the reports were baseless and failed to represent the true conditions within correctional facilities nationwide.
He clarified that feeding provisions are part of the Federal Government’s annual budget and are managed with close oversight and adherence to established standards.
He highlighted that inmates are entitled to three meals daily, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, n line with the Service’s operational guidelines.
“All custodial centres are governed by operational procedures that ensure the proper and timely feeding of all inmates,” Umar explained.
“The Federal Government allocates funds specifically for the feeding of inmates, and the process is strictly monitored to ensure compliance with established standards.
“The allegation that inmates are dying of hunger is unfounded. There is no record in any of our custodial centres that inmates are being starved or dying because of inadequate feeding.
“It is completely false to insinuate that inmates are left to starve or that hunger is leading to deaths within our facilities.
“We want to assure the public that inmates are properly fed and their welfare remains a top priority for the Nigerian Correctional Service,” he said.
Describing the reports as unethical and illogical, Umar questioned the authenticity of claims suggesting that journalists conducted interviews with inmates inside correctional facilities, which are highly secure environments with strict access controls.
“Entry into correctional centres is governed by strict protocols requiring written applications, approval from the Officer-in-Charge, and in some cases, clearance from the Controller-General.
“I wonder how a journalist could claim to have interviewed inmates inside a custodial facility. These are high-security zones where you can’t just walk in, let alone carry recording devices.
“Even cameras and mobile phones are prohibited because of the risk of concealed recording. So, for anyone to say they interviewed inmates inside a custodial centre is nothing but a fabrication,” he added.
Umar further noted that the NCoS has intensified internal monitoring systems to ensure that allocated resources, especially those for inmate welfare and feeding, are used appropriately. He stressed that facility heads are held accountable, with a national and state-level oversight structure in place.
“We maintain a robust accountability system. Any officer found wanting in the discharge of their duties faces appropriate disciplinary measures in line with the law,” he added.
While acknowledging certain operational challenges, Umar emphasized that these have not interfered with the feeding of inmates.
He also voiced concern that the false narratives could mislead the public and damage the image of the Service.
“We are not oblivious to the economic realities and general constraints, but these have not in any way translated to starvation or hunger-related deaths in our facilities.
“We urge media organisations to always seek clarification from credible sources before going to press.
“Journalism is a noble profession that thrives on accuracy and responsibility. Publishing unverified and sensational stories can undermine public trust.
“We expect the media to seek clarification from appropriate authorities before rushing to publish such sensitive stories that can mislead the public,” he said.
According to Umar, the administration of President Bola Tinubu has taken significant steps to improve funding for correctional facilities and the welfare of inmates. He added that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has shown a strong commitment to reform.
“When this government came in, they looked into the issue of inmate feeding and increased the allocation by 50 percent. That was the first step toward improving the welfare of those in our custody, and it is subject to further review.
“We have a minister who is passionate and working round the clock. A panel has been set up to further review inmate feeding, and I am confident that positive changes are on the horizon,” he said.
Umar reiterated that the NCoS remains dedicated to the rehabilitation and humane treatment of inmates, aligning with international standards. He also welcomed collaboration with the public, civil society groups, and international partners.
He encouraged Nigerians and stakeholders to engage with the NCoS constructively and visit facilities to verify conditions first-hand.
“Our facilities are open to oversight visits by relevant stakeholders. We operate transparently and welcome constructive engagement aimed at improving our operations.
“We are committed to humane and dignified treatment of all persons in our custody. Our mandate goes beyond mere incarceration. It includes reforming and rehabilitating inmates to ensure they return to society as better individuals.
“We urge the public to continue to support our efforts in building a correctional system that the nation can be proud of,” he added.
