The Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has demanded a transparent and independent investigation into the reported death of 37 persons while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. The organisation described the incident as deeply disturbing and requiring urgent accountability. JNI Secretary-General, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, signed the statement.
The incident occurred during an alleged illegal-mining operation, with the victims arrested and subsequently dying in custody. JNI raised serious questions about their detention and treatment. The organisation welcomed the Federal Government's decision to institute an independent investigation and suspend officers connected with the incident pending the outcome of the probe.
JNI emphasised the need for a thorough, timely, and credible investigation, with no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. The investigation should establish what happened from the point of arrest, including detention conditions, access to medical attention, and supervision of detainees. The organisation also cautioned against prejudging the outcome, saying responsibility must be established through evidence and due process.
The deaths have triggered protests and tension in Minna, the Niger State capital. Reports that some of those detained were young men made the incident more painful. JNI expressed concern over the continuing deterioration of security across several parts of Nigeria, including Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Kebbi, Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Gombe, Kogi, Benue, and Plateau states.
The organisation condemned the killings, abductions, terrorism, banditry, cattle rustling, destruction of livelihoods, and attacks on security personnel. JNI acknowledged the sacrifices of security agencies but said the recurrence and scale of attacks required greater urgency, improved coordination, and stronger intelligence. The group called for a review of Nigeria's security architecture.
JNI recommended identifying and dismantling terrorist and bandit camps, disrupting their sources of arms and logistics, and stronger intelligence sharing among security agencies. The organisation also urged greater protection for vulnerable communities, schools, highways, markets, and places of worship. On illegal mining, JNI called for lawful, coordinated, and humane enforcement.
JNI urged authorities to provide medical, psychological, and social support to victims of kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry after their release. The organisation prayed for the victims of terrorism and their families, as well as those currently in captivity, displaced persons, and injured victims.
Key points
- JNI demands transparent probe into Niger miners' deaths
- Organisation calls for review of Nigeria's security architecture
- JNI recommends stronger intelligence sharing among security agencies
