Nigeria Prison Service Denies Claims of Starving Inmates

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed reports suggesting that inmates across the country are being poorly fed and dying from hunger.

Speaking to Newsmen, the Service’s spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, said the allegations were “misleading, sensational, and grossly inaccurate.”

“There is no record in any of our custodial centres that inmates are being starved or dying due to inadequate feeding,” Mr Umar said.

He insisted that the claims do not reflect the actual conditions within the country’s correctional facilities, adding that the Nigerian government allocates funds annually for the feeding of inmates, with the process monitored under strict operational guidelines.

“Inmates are entitled to three meals daily – breakfast, lunch and dinner – and this is implemented in line with our service regulations,” he said.

Reports of inmate deaths due to hunger have circulated on social media and in some local press outlets in recent days. However, the NCoS maintains that such claims are not only false but implausible, given the security protocols and oversight in place.

Mr Umar questioned the credibility of the reports, pointing out the restricted access to custodial centres and the prohibition of mobile phones and recording devices.

“These are high-security facilities. Entry requires written applications and official approval, sometimes even from the Controller-General. The suggestion that a journalist could walk in and interview inmates is simply untrue,” he said.

The spokesperson added that the NCoS has reinforced its internal monitoring systems, with officers held accountable for the use of resources, particularly those allocated for inmate welfare.

He emphasised the Service’s zero-tolerance policy towards mismanagement, stating that any officer found to be negligent would face disciplinary action.

The NCoS has urged the public to disregard what it describes as fabricated and unethical reporting, insisting that the welfare of inmates remains a key priority.