UNCOVERED: Nigerian Prison Inmates Protest Over Stolen Food Donations, Corruptionq

UNCOVERED: Nigerian Prison Inmates Protest Over Stolen Food Donations, Corruption

A shocking scandal has rocked the Nigerian Correctional Services Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, as inmates protested against poor feeding conditions and alleged corruption among top officials. The demonstration erupted after inmates discovered that several bags of rice donated to the facility had been diverted by officials.

A truck containing 500 bags of rice was donated to the prison as palliative by a philanthropist, but about 200 bags were allegedly shared among staff, leaving only 300 bags for the inmates. Sources revealed that Assistant Controller, Mr. Shagba, advised the then Officer-in-Charge, DC Lamiya (retd), to divert the remaining bags for personal gain.

The inmates, already frustrated with the poor feeding conditions, became enraged when they saw officials moving the rice out of the food store. They began chanting protest songs and physically attacked some officials. The situation was brought under control only after the intervention of the State Controller and Zonal Coordinator.

This incident highlights the deep-seated corruption and neglect within Nigeria's correctional system. Inmates face dire living conditions, inadequate food, and poor healthcare. Donations meant to alleviate their suffering are often diverted by unscrupulous officials.

The Nigerian government must take urgent action to address these issues, ensuring that donations reach their intended recipients and that officials are held accountable for their actions. Human rights organizations and advocacy groups are demanding a thorough investigation into the allegations of corruption and neglect at Keffi prison.

Nigeria has struggled with corruption for decades, with the concept of neopatrimonialism contributing to the prevalence of corruption. This system allows politicians to use their positions to amass resources for themselves and members of their primary groups, perpetuating a culture of corruption.

The government's efforts to combat corruption, including the establishment of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), have been hindered by limited political will, inadequate structures, and a weak judicial system.

An inmate confirmed the incident to SaharaReporters, stating that top prison officials regularly personalize donations meant for inmates. "It took the intervention of the state controller of prison to prevent a possible jailbreak," the inmate revealed.

When contacted, Dr. Alhaji Thomas, the current Officer-in-Charge, denied the allegations, calling them "lies." He invited SaharaReporters to conduct an investigation at the prison.

This incident echoes a similar protest in July at the Correctional Centre in Jos, Plateau State, where inmates demonstrated against plans to reduce their food ration.