Federal government investigates hunger crisis among prisoners in Calabar prison

The federal government is investigating reports of inadequate food for prisoners at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar South Local Government Area of ​​Cross River State.

Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered the investigation after a widely viewed video raised concerns about the quality and quantity of food provided to inmates at the facility. Authorities were asked to assess the situation and ensure that inmates are adequately fed.

A video report posted on Facebook claimed that inmates at the Custodial Centre were being treated inhumanely, specifically highlighting that they were being served poorly cooked beans for breakfast.

In a statement released on Sunday by his media adviser Babatunde Alao, the minister expressed serious concern over the disturbing video report.

Tunji-Ojo said the investigation aims to address these issues and improve conditions at the facility. He added: “I consider this incident a serious breach of the standards of care and dignity to which inmates are entitled.”

“I have ordered a full and urgent investigation into this matter and those responsible will be held accountable,” the statement said.

The minister also issued a warning regarding the quality of nutrition, hygiene and general welfare of inmates, stating that shortcomings in this area would not be tolerated.

He stressed the importance of treating prisoners with dignity and respect and called for immediate improvements to ensure humane conditions in correctional facilities across the country.

“As Home Secretary, I will not tolerate any form of ill-treatment or neglect of people in custody,” he added.

The statement also stressed that the results of the investigation would be made public and promised that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken.