A member of Nigeria's federal government investigation committee, Deji Adeyanju, has alleged that the cell of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) where 33 suspected illegal miners died in Minna, Niger State, was washed, disinfected and renumbered in an attempt to destroy evidence. This disclosure was made on his social media account, citing findings in the committee's report. The allegation raises questions about the handling of evidence following the deaths in NSCDC custody in September.
The incident occurred on September 15 and 16, when suspected illegal miners were arrested during operations in Minna. Niger State NSCDC Commandant Suberu Aniviye and 20 other officers were suspended in connection with the incident. The federal government constituted an independent committee on September 19, following President Bola Tinubu's directive for a full and transparent investigation into the deaths.
The committee, led by Jonathan Kure, inspected the detention facility, conducted autopsies, and collected witness statements and forensic evidence. Investigators identified asphyxiation, or the deprivation of adequate oxygen, as the cause of death. The committee's findings were submitted to the federal government, recommending prosecution of officers involved in the deaths for murder and other offences.
The committee also recommended a comprehensive overhaul of the NSCDC's leadership, compensation for the victims' families, and the formalisation of artisanal mining. Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated that the committee described the deaths as a preventable custodial tragedy caused by severe overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and dehydration.
According to the Minister, the report found that these conditions, not a disease outbreak, led to the deaths. The report has been transmitted to the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation for judicial action. The Minister warned that officers who attempted to conceal, disrupt, or destroy evidence would be held accountable.
The allegation that the cell was cleaned, disinfected, and renumbered has not been independently verified. The committee's full report and any official response from the NSCDC on the specific allegation were not immediately available. The incident has raised concerns about the handling of evidence and the treatment of suspects in custody.
The federal government has taken steps to address the issue, including the suspension of NSCDC officers and the constitution of an investigation committee. The government has also emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability in the handling of the incident.
Key points
- The NSCDC cell where 33 suspected illegal miners died was allegedly cleaned and disinfected.
- The committee recommended prosecution of officers involved in the deaths.
- The deaths were attributed to preventable custodial conditions.
