Afokang Correctional Centre Overcrowded with 784 Inmates

The Afokang Correctional Centre, located in Calabar, Cross River, is currently holding 784 inmates, which is 334 more than its designed capacity of 450. During a visit by scholars from Rights Academy, it was revealed that 68% of the inmates are awaiting trial, totaling 531 individuals, including 520 males and 11 females.

The facility houses 756 male and 28 female inmates overall, with 170 convicted inmates (154 males and 16 females) and 48 inmates on death row (47 males and 1 female). Chief Superintendent of Corrections, A.E.

Edet, highlighted the negative effects of prolonged pre-trial detention on inmates’ future opportunities and mental health. Concerns were raised regarding the judicial oversight frequency, noting that the Chief Judge last conducted a jail delivery exercise in September 2025.

The scholars also learned about the facility's inadequate medical supplies and the provision of menstrual hygiene materials through government and NGO support. Rehabilitation programs aimed at skill acquisition for inmates were also discussed.