The Prisoners’ Rights Advocacy Initiative (PRAI) has called for a comprehensive investigation into the feeding conditions of inmates across Nigeria’s custodial centres. This demand follows the recent directive from the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who on Sunday ordered an inquiry into the alleged mistreatment of inmates at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar.
The minister’s order was triggered by a viral video that surfaced online, showing inmates being subjected to inhumane conditions, including being served poorly cooked beans for breakfast. In response, Tunji-Ojo vowed that those responsible, if found culpable, would face serious consequences.
However, PRAI’s Founder, Ahmed Adetola-Kazeem, argues that the problem extends far beyond Calabar. “What has happened in Calabar prison is not strange,” Adetola-Kazeem said. “In fact, many inmates, particularly those who receive support from their families, do not even eat the food provided by the prison because of its deplorable state and low quality.”
Adetola-Kazeem urged the Minister to broaden the scope of his investigation. “The Minister of Interior should not just focus on Calabar alone,” he said. “There should be unannounced visits to many other prisons. If undercover agents were sent to these facilities, the results would likely reveal widespread issues that need urgent attention.”
He also raised concerns about the budgetary allocations for inmate feeding, especially given the current economic situation in Nigeria, marked by inflation and soaring food prices. “Has there been an improvement in the budget for feeding inmates?” Adetola-Kazeem asked. “It is crucial to address foundational issues and ensure that allocated funds reach the inmates they are meant for.”
In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry of Interior expressed grave concern over the situation in Calabar, calling it a serious breach of the standards of care and dignity to which inmates are entitled. The minister has directed a “comprehensive and urgent investigation” into the matter, with a promise that those responsible will be held accountable.
Tunji-Ojo further warned that any lapses in the quality of food, sanitation, and welfare of inmates would not be tolerated. “The Minister of Interior will not condone any form of mistreatment or neglect of individuals in custody,” the statement read, adding that the findings of the investigation would be made public and that appropriate disciplinary actions would be taken.
The calls for a broader probe underscore the deep-rooted concerns about the conditions within Nigeria’s custodial centres, highlighting the need for systemic reforms to ensure that inmates are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
