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In Nigeria, the prison system has been marred by corruption and mistreatment, leaving inmates to suffer at the hands of those tasked with their rehabilitation. Inhumane treatment and deplorable conditions have become the norm, raising serious concerns about human rights violations and the nation's commitment to justice.
One glaring issue is the rampant corruption among prison officials. Allegations have surfaced claiming that prison officers demand bribes of up to ₦50,000 to move inmates to the VIP section, a practice that highlights the deep-rooted corruption within the system. The NCS Act, CAP. N97 LFN, 2004, and the NCS Service Regulations, 2018, make no provision for a VIP section, underscoring the illegal nature of these dealings.
The quality of food provided to prisoners is another pressing concern. According to the Correctional Service Act, Chapter C.38, LFN, 2004, Section 32(1), "Every inmate shall be provided with an adequate amount of food of nutritional value, prepared under hygienic conditions." However, reports of poor food quality and insufficient quantity paint a stark reality for those behind bars.
Moreover, the Prison Act mandates that every prison must have a visiting justice who serves as a watchdog over the prison administration, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Despite this, inhumane treatment persists, suggesting a systemic failure to uphold the law.
The Nigerian prison system is in dire need of reform. Corruption and mistreatment must be rooted out, and officials must be held accountable for their actions. Only then can the nation ensure that the rights and dignity of its inmates are upheld, and justice truly served.
I'm Chief Dr Patrick Osagie Eholor otherwise known as Ultimate Equal President One Love Foundation, Senior Advocate of the Masses.