The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) has called for a thorough investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger state. CONYL President-General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, stated that the deaths were a grave development requiring a transparent and independent investigation. The group expressed sympathy with the families of the deceased, saying they deserved truth, dignity, and justice.
The NSCDC initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, but authorities later said the actual cause had not been established, and medical and forensic examinations were necessary. Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago confirmed the deaths and ordered investigations, including forensic examinations and autopsies. CONYL condemned any negligence, abuse of authority, unlawful treatment, or dereliction of duty that may have contributed to the deaths.
CONYL demanded a full-scale, transparent, and credible investigation into the incident, seeking to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the death of each detainee. The group called for investigators to determine the condition of the detainees before, during, and after their arrest, and whether established detention and medical procedures were followed. They also demanded that all personnel involved in the arrest, detention, supervision, and treatment of the deceased be identified.
The Federal Government has constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths, following President Bola Tinubu's directive for a comprehensive, transparent, and unhindered inquiry. The Interior Ministry suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and 20 other officers pending the outcome of the investigation. CONYL welcomed these steps but warned that suspension should not be regarded as a substitute for accountability.
CONYL emphasised that any person found culpable through a credible investigation and due process should face appropriate sanctions. The organisation stated that no uniform should confer immunity and no office should provide sanctuary from accountability. They cautioned against allowing an investigation to become an avenue for institutional self-protection, insisting that the process must command public confidence.
The group stressed that the status of the deceased as suspected illegal miners should not diminish their fundamental rights, noting that allegations of illegal mining do not amount to conviction. CONYL urged the authorities to ensure that the investigation determines the circumstances surrounding the deaths without interference and that the families of the deceased receive timely and accurate information throughout the investigation.
The Nigerian Bar Association and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, have also called for a thorough and transparent investigation. CONYL appealed to Nigerians, particularly young people, to remain peaceful while demanding accountability, stressing that peaceful advocacy should not be mistaken for indifference. The coalition reiterated its solidarity with the bereaved families and urged all relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation produces credible answers and that anyone found responsible is held accountable.
Key points
- - CONYL demands a transparent and independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody. - The Federal Government has constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths. - CONYL emphasises that any person found culpable should face appropriate sanctions, and no uniform should confer immunity.
