An inmate of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Okere Correctional Centre in Warri, Delta State, simply identified as David, has died in the centre.

He was said to have died following complications linked to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

The Deputy Comptroller of Prisons in charge of the prison, DCP Richard Egbede, confirmed the incident in a telephone chat in response to a social media claim, alleging neglect of the deceased inmate.

He explained that the deceased, who had been living with HIV, consistently refused to take his prescribed antiretroviral drugs despite repeated interventions by prison officials and medical personnel.

According to him, “We have been giving him the drugs all the time, but he would just keep them without taking them.

“About a month ago, when his condition worsened, we rushed him to the Central Hospital, Warri. He was admitted, treated for two to three days, and discharged back into our custody. We advised him to take his medication seriously, but he still failed to comply.”

Egbede explained that shortly before his death, David developed a mild fever, prompting urgent medical attention within the custodial centre.

“I was with him until about 8 p.m. that evening when we placed him on a drip. His cell mates were very supportive and later, around 2 a.m., his health deteriorated further and in the morning, we rushed him back to Central Hospital, where doctors placed him on oxygen.

“But, unfortunately, before his test results could be released, he passed away,” he added.

Egbede, however, dismissed social media reports alleging neglect of the inmate by prison authorities, noting, “The service provided consistent medical support throughout the late inmate’s illness.

“To the best of my knowledge, if he were alive today, he would testify that we took care of him,” he said.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has not yet released an official statement aside the confirmation provided by the Deputy Comptroller. (Daily Trust)