Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has been appointed to the Federal Government's independent committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal gold miners in Minna, Niger state. The tragedy occurred between September 15 and 16, 2026, when the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arrested over 50 suspected illegal miners during operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State.
Two days after the arrest, the detainees were found dead inside a crowded, poorly ventilated cell at the NSCDC facility in Minna. Survivors recounted harrowing scenes of panic and suffocation. The incident triggered protests in Minna, forcing the Niger State Government to impose a 24-hour curfew. The Federal Government responded by constituting a 10-member independent committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
In a public statement issued via his social media account, Adeyanju confirmed his acceptance of the appointment. He stated that he was invited to serve on the committee to ensure that the interests of the victims are adequately represented. Adeyanju thanked the Government for considering him worthy to serve and emphasized that he is joining the committee solely to protect the interests of the victims and establish the truth.
Adeyanju urged the government not to make any monetary provision, stipend, or honorarium for members of the committee, describing the task as a national duty. He stated that he would not accept any payment and would personally bear his hotel, transportation, and other expenses throughout the duration of the assignment. This decision is in line with his commitment to ensuring a transparent investigation.
The activist issued a stern warning against any attempt to shield those responsible for the deaths. He declared that if there is any attempt to suppress the truth or cover up wrongdoing, he will expose it. Adeyanju emphasized that the victims deserve justice and that the Nigerian factor must not be allowed to prevail. His determination to uncover the truth has been welcomed by many.
The incident has raised concerns about the treatment of suspects by security agencies and the need for accountability. The NSCDC has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, and the investigation is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Adeyanju's involvement is seen as a positive step towards ensuring that the investigation is thorough and transparent.
The Federal Government's decision to constitute an independent committee to investigate the deaths demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability. The committee's findings are expected to be made public, and those responsible for the deaths will be brought to justice. Adeyanju's appointment has been seen as a move to ensure that the investigation is credible and that the interests of the victims are represented.
Key points
- Deji Adeyanju has been appointed to the Federal Government's independent committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal gold miners in Minna, Niger state.
- Adeyanju has vowed to expose any attempt to suppress the truth or cover up wrongdoing during the investigation.
- The investigation aims to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and bring those responsible to justice.
