Inmates at the correctional centres in the country should be treated with dignity. That is the position of Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the minister of interior under whose supervision the correctional centres are placed. He expressed dismay at the reported dehumanising conditions to which inmates of the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar, Cross River State, are subjected.
The Minister has, therefore, ordered a probe into the living conditions of inmates at Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar correctional facility in response to a viral video on Facebook showing inmates being allegedly served poorly cooked beans as breakfast. Speaking through his media aide, Babatunde Alao, the minister vowed to hold those responsible to account, stating that the inmates in a correctional facility should not be subjected to inhumane treatment,
The statement reads in part; “The Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has taken grave exception to a disturbing video report on Facebook. The Minister views this incident as a serious breach of the standards of care and dignity to which inmates are entitled. He has directed a comprehensive and urgent investigation into this matter, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
Beyond the probe he also implored the custodians to ensure that the inmates should not be treated with disrespect. The statement added, “The Minister warns that any lapses in the quality of food, sanitation, and welfare of inmates will not be tolerated, adding that the service must ensure inmates are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
“The Minister of Interior will not condone any form of mistreatment or neglect of individuals in custody.
“The findings of the investigation will be made public, and necessary disciplinary actions will be taken”.
