NCoS denies reports of inmate starvation

The Nigerian Correctional Service,NCoS, has dismissed claims that inmates are starving and dying of hunger across custodial centres.

In an interview on Tuesday, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, described the reports as misleading, sensational, and inaccurate.

Umar stated that the allegations do not reflect the realities within the correctional system, insisting that inmates are properly fed under strict operational guidelines.

He explained that the Federal Government allocates funds annually for inmate feeding, which are utilised under close supervision to ensure compliance.

“Inmates are entitled to three daily meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—as stipulated in our operational framework,” Umar said.

He emphasized that all custodial centres operate within laid-down procedures to guarantee the timely and adequate feeding of inmates.

Dismissing allegations of hunger-related deaths, Umar said there were no records indicating that any inmate had died as a result of starvation.

He maintained that the welfare of inmates remained a top priority and that the service enforces a zero-tolerance policy for negligence or mismanagement.

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“We have an accountability system. Officers in charge of custodial centres are held responsible and face disciplinary measures if found wanting,” he stated.

Umar also questioned the credibility of reports claiming that journalists interviewed inmates within custodial facilities, describing such accounts as fabricated.

“These are high-security zones. Entry requires written approval, and even recording devices are prohibited,” he explained.

He expressed concern that the reports could incite public anxiety and damage the image of the NCoS, urging media outlets to seek accurate information before publication.

Highlighting government efforts to improve inmate welfare, Umar noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration had increased feeding allocations by 50 percent.

He added that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had set up a panel to further review feeding conditions and promote reform in correctional centres.

Umar reaffirmed the service’s commitment to transparency, reformation, and rehabilitation in line with international standards.

He called on media organisations, civil society groups, and the public to engage constructively and verify facts through authorised visits.

“Our facilities are open for inspection. We welcome collaboration to build a humane, rehabilitative correctional system,” Umar concluded.

NAN