In a counter post, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has denied the allegations leveled against it regarding the poor feeding conditions inmates are subjected to at the Jos Custodial Centre in Plateau State.
NCoS, in a statement released on May 4, 2024, and signed by the Public Relations Officer, Deputy Controller of Corrections Umar Abubakar, branded the allegations as “false, misleading, and a gross misrepresentation.โ
Speaking with respect to the viral video, NCoS maintained that some unknown group with ulterior motives is responsible for the circulation of outdated narratives to instigate public outrage.
โFor the avoidance of doubt, the publication is a recycled one which is pushed forward to create ruckus where none exists,โ the NCoS said.
Detailed in the statement, NCoS cited that meals served to prisoners in the Jos Custodial Centre are structured, monitored, and also in alignment with the nutritional standards set by health professionals.
โInmates 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.”
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) justified its innocence, citing provisions in the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, which stipulates “strict guidelines” for inmate welfare, including feeding, healthcare, and general well-being.
The NCoS equally disclosed that the government, committed to fair treatment of inmates, recently increased the daily feeding allowance to โฆ1,125 per inmate.
โThe increment reflects the governmentโs 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.
โThis adjustment is aimed at ensuring that inmates receive adequate and nutritious meals in line with acceptable welfare standards.”
Furthermore, NCoS stated that feeding operations are transparent, with external watchdogs like the Ministry of Interior, civil society organizations, and international partners conducting periodic inspections to checkmate the activities of officials.
โNone of their recent reports support the dehumanizing portrayal circulated by certain individuals or interest groups about the welfare of inmates,โ it added.
โFurthermore, 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.โ
โInmates 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.”
About the Author
