Minister investigates ‘badly cooked beans’ in Calabar prison – The Whistler Newspaper

The Federal Government has expressed its dismay at the inhumane conditions endured by inmates at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar, Cross River State.

A video shared on Facebook showed prisoners allegedly being served poorly cooked beans for breakfast.

In response, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered an investigation into the living conditions of the inmates at the correctional facility.

Through his media adviser Babatunde Alao, the minister announced that he would hold those responsible to account.

The statement reads in part: “The Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has taken great umbrage at a disturbing video report on Facebook alleging that inmates at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar are being subjected to inhumane treatment, including being served poorly cooked beans for breakfast.

“The Minister considers this incident to be a serious breach of the standards of care and dignity to which prisoners are entitled.

“He has ordered a full and urgent investigation into this matter and those responsible will be held to account.

“The Minister warns that deficiencies in the quality of nutrition, hygiene and welfare of prisoners will not be tolerated, adding that the service must ensure that prisoners are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

“The Home Secretary will not tolerate any form of ill-treatment or neglect of detainees.

“The results of the investigation will be made public and the necessary disciplinary action will be taken.”