By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), popularly known as Nigerian Prison Service, has outrightly refuted the report circulating in a section of the media, alleging that Nigerian inmate’s daily feeding is N200. It described the report as false, misleading and mischievous in its content and intent.
A statement by the Assistant Controller of Corrections
Public Relations Officer (PRO),
Nigerian Correctional Service
National headquarters Abuja, Mr. AD Umar, noted that the N750 approved by federal government for Nigeria inmate is in the public domain, and remained intact.
“A misleading report circulated in a section of the media purporting that Nigerian inmates are fed with N200 daily instead of N750 approved by the Federal Government has come to the attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
“This report is false, misleading, and mischievous in all ramifications. For the avoidance of doubt, the public may wish to note that feeding allowance for inmates in Nigeria is in the public domain, and vendors are paid the approved amount upon completion of supply”, the Service stated.
According to the statement, the contract for ration supply is usually made public, and the conditions clearly stated for interested vendors to apply in line with the public procurement act 2007.
It further maintained that, every custodial centre has a ration committee that exercises supervisory role over quality assurance of supply, preparation, and distribution to inmates to ensure that they are fed within the approved budget.
“The authorities have, over the years, demonstrated commitment towards improving inmates’ welfare in terms of feeding as well as empowerment through effective reformation and rehabilitation programmes.
“While the Service is making efforts to appeal to the Federal Government for upward review of feeding allowance to reflect the present economic realities, it will be unfair and unpatriotic for anyone to fabricate stories just to denigrate the Service.
“The public is advised to discountenance the false report and be assured of the irrevocable commitment of the Controller-General of Corrections, Haliru Nababa FICMC MFR, to work for the general good of persons in custody even as genuine support of well-meaning Nigerians will continue to be appreciated”, he added.
