Custodial Centre feeding

Minister Orders Probe of Inhumane Treatment at Custodial Centre

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered an immediate investigation into the allegations of inhumane treatment of inmates at the Afokang custodial centre, Calabar.

This came following a disturbing video report on Facebook alleging that inmates at the Afokang custodial centre, were being subjected to inhuman treatment and poor feeding. The video has sparked outrage from many quarters lamenting the handling of the matter.

Mr Tunji-Ojo in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Babatunde Alao described the incident as a serious breach of the standards of care and dignity to which inmates were entitled to world over.

He, however, directed a comprehensive and urgent investigation into the inhuman treatment meted out to the inmates, adding that those responsible for such acts would be held accountable.

Mr Tunji-Ojo warned that any lapses in the quality of food, sanitation, and welfare of inmates henceforth, would not be tolerated.

He said that the service must ensure that inmates were treated with the dignity and respect they deserve, adding that he would not condone any form of maltreatment or neglect of individuals in custody.

He promised that the findings of the investigation would be made public, and necessary disciplinary actions taken.