The League of Northern Democrats has called for a thorough investigation into the deaths of 37 Nigerians who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Minna, Niger State. According to the group, the victims were arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining in the Wushishi-Lukoto areas on September 15 and 16 and found dead on September 17.
The LND, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr Ladan Salihu, expressed concerns over the circumstances surrounding the deaths. While the NSCDC initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, survivor accounts and an intelligence report cited by AFP raised concerns about overcrowding and inadequate ventilation.
The group emphasized that allegations of illegal mining could not justify the loss of lives in government custody, stressing that every detainee was entitled to humane treatment and due process. The LND commended the Federal Government for ordering a comprehensive investigation and constituting a 10-member independent committee to look into the incident.
The committee was set up to investigate what happened from the victims' arrest through detention, treatment, and death. The LND urged the government to ensure that the probe was not reduced to a mere administrative exercise, saying it must establish the truth, determine responsibility, and deliver justice.
The group called for the preservation of relevant evidence, including arrest and detention records, medical records, available CCTV footage, duty rosters, and official communications. They also demanded the proper identification of the victims and disclosure of the circumstances of their deaths to their families.
The LND further called for the prosecution of anyone found responsible for unlawful, negligent, or abusive conduct, regardless of rank. They also urged a review of detention facilities and procedures across security agencies to prevent avoidable deaths in custody.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many calling for action on poverty, unemployment, child labor, and inadequate education, which are factors driving young Nigerians into dangerous informal mining. The LND appealed to citizens to remain peaceful while the investigation and judicial processes proceed, saying the lives of the 37 Nigerians must not become another statistic.
Key points
- The League of Northern Democrats demands a transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 Nigerians in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
- The group emphasizes that allegations of illegal mining cannot justify the loss of lives in government custody.
- The LND calls for the prosecution of anyone found responsible for unlawful, negligent, or abusive conduct.
