The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched an independent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. This move comes amid rising concerns about detention conditions, treatment of suspects, and accountability within the security system. The investigation was announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also ordered the suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the Corps and officers on duty during the arrests and detention.
The incident occurred on September 15 and 16, when security operatives arrested suspected illegal miners during operations in the Wushishi-Lukoto area of Niger State. The victims were reportedly found dead while in NSCDC custody on September 17. Minister Tunji-Ojo described the incident as deeply disturbing and extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Niger State Government, and Nigerians affected by the tragedy. He emphasized that the Federal Government owes Nigerians the truth and stressed that no officer would be protected if found culpable.
The investigative panel, chaired by retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, Jonathan Kure, has been tasked with establishing what happened to the detainees. The committee has been given two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its findings to the minister. Its membership includes experts from various fields, such as law, security, and medicine, to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
The panel's terms of reference include establishing the identities of the deceased, documenting the circumstances of their arrest and detention, and determining the cause and manner of death through appropriate medical and forensic examinations. The committee is also expected to investigate possible negligence, misconduct, complicity, or breaches of duty and recommend disciplinary measures, compensation where applicable, and safeguards against a recurrence.
Minister Tunji-Ojo authorized the panel to access relevant facilities and documents, visit locations connected to the incident, conduct forensic examinations, co-opt experts, and receive memoranda from members of the public. He also directed NSCDC leadership and relevant personnel to cooperate fully, warning that any attempt to destroy evidence, intimidate witnesses, or obstruct the inquiry would be treated as a serious offense.
The membership of the investigative panel includes former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, who will serve as secretary; retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Hosea Hassan Karma; and Prof. Olayinka Buhari, a histopathology professor and former Chief Medical Director of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Other members represent the Minna Emirate Council, Niger State Government, and the National Secretary of the Miners Association of Nigeria, among others.
Key points from the investigation include the need to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the 37 suspected illegal miners, determine the cause of death, and recommend measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The investigation aims to provide closure to the families of the victims and ensure accountability within the security system. The government's response is seen as a step towards addressing concerns about human rights and detention conditions in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Federal Government has inaugurated a 10-member investigative committee to probe the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody in Niger State.
- The committee has been given two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its findings to the Minister of Interior.
- The investigation aims to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, determine the cause of death, and recommend measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
