The Independent Investigative Panel, established by the Ministry of Interior to probe allegations of corruption, cruel, and inhumane treatment within the Nigerian Correctional Service, shifted its focus on Wednesday to the service’s feeding and agricultural system.
The discussion aimed to address the pressing issues of inmate malnutrition and the underutilization of farm centers.
During the hearing, a representative from the office of the Comptroller General highlighted key challenges affecting the correctional service’s feeding policy and farm centers.
He stated that despite inflation, the daily feeding allowance for inmates only increased from ₦750 to ₦1,125—a sum still considered inadequate.
Additionally, he pointed out issues of insecurity, including encroachment on farmlands and explained that the farm centers were primarily designed to generate revenue for the federal government rather than directly benefit the inmates.
However, in response to this assertion, the panel’s secretary, Dr. Uju Agomoh, referenced the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, Section 14, Subsections 1 to 3.
She explained that the law provides for inmates to benefit from farm center proceeds and called for urgent measures to combat malnutrition within the correctional service.
Panel member Ikechukwu Ezeugo acknowledged the correctional service’s concerns but stressed the need for innovative solutions. He pointed out that, despite valid complaints, the service has been inadequate in implementing Section 14 of the Act which states the profits from the correctional farm centers and vocational activities be split into 3, for the sustainability of the enterprise, inmates welfare and rehabilitation and remittance to the Federal government.
He urged authorities to explore alternative strategies to overcome these challenges.
Adding to the discussion, Mr. Panama Agboh, a representative of the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending, proposed a model for the farm centers.
He stated that their organization’s framework could help address some of the persistent challenges in feeding and agricultural management within the correctional service.
As the panel concluded its eighth day of public hearings, the secretary of the panel, Dr. Uju Agomoh, summarized the key issues discussed and reiterated the panel’s position on the need for reforms.
With the public hearing concluding its eighth deliberation, proceedings will continue on Thursday, March 13, 2025, as the panel prepares for the final phase of its second session.