The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly refuted recent media reports suggesting that inmates in custodial centres across the country are being poorly fed and dying of hunger, dismissing the claims as “misleading, sensational, and grossly inaccurate.”
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, April 15, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, stated that the reports did not reflect the true conditions within correctional facilities nationwide.
“The Federal Government allocates funds specifically for the feeding of inmates, and the process is strictly monitored to ensure compliance with established standards,” Umar said, adding that each inmate is entitled to three meals daily in line with operational guidelines.
Umar described as “completely false” the suggestion that inmates are being starved or dying from hunger.
He also questioned the credibility of the reports, pointing out the restricted access and strict security protocols in place at correctional centres.
“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, The report defies logic and is clearly a fabrication,” he noted.
He emphasised that the NCoS has robust accountability systems in place to ensure that all resources allocated for inmate welfare are used appropriately, and warned that any staff found negligent would face disciplinary action.
“We have zero tolerance for mismanagement. Any officer found wanting is held accountable in accordance with the law,” he said.
While acknowledging the economic challenges currently facing the country, Umar maintained that these have not affected the feeding arrangements for inmates.
“When this government came in, they increased the allocation for inmate feeding by 50 per cent. That was a major step toward improving welfare,” he added, praising President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its increased support.
Umar also called on the media and civil society groups to verify facts before publication, stressing the importance of responsible journalism.
“We operate transparently and welcome constructive engagement. Journalism thrives on accuracy and responsibility,” he said.
The NCoS reaffirmed its commitment to upholding humane standards and rehabilitative efforts in line with international best practices.
“Our mandate goes beyond incarceration; it includes reforming and rehabilitating inmates so that they can return to society as better individuals,” Umar concluded.
