The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly denied recent claims alleging poor feeding of inmates in its facilities, branding them as “false, misleading, and a gross misrepresentation of the realities.”
In a statement issued Sunday, the NCoS spokesman, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Abubakar Umar, emphasized that the report in question was a recycled story intended to stir unnecessary controversy.
Umar reiterated the Service’s compliance with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019, which ensures the provision of adequate nutrition, healthcare, and overall welfare for all inmates.
“Our meals meet nutritional standards as advised by health experts and are regularly overseen by the ration committee established by the Controller General of Corrections,” he explained.
“These menu plans are reviewed periodically to keep up with health requirements and budgetary constraints.”
Addressing the economic context, Umar noted that the Federal Government recently raised the daily feeding allowance per inmate to ₦1,125, a move aimed at ensuring nutritional adequacy and reflecting the state’s commitment to the humane treatment of persons in custody.
He added that inmate welfare is subject to scrutiny by various oversight bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, civil society organizations, and international partners. “Their recent assessments do not support the negative portrayal being circulated,” he stated.
Umar concluded by reaffirming the Service’s dedication to upholding the rights and dignity of all inmates in accordance with international standards.
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