The Northern Senators Forum has called for an independent and comprehensive investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Minna, Niger State. The senators expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the deaths, which they described as "deeply disturbing and unacceptable." They demanded a probe to establish who ordered the arrests, where the suspects were taken, and who approved their detention.
The senators, in a statement issued by the Chairman of the forum, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'adua, said the investigation must determine whether the room where the detainees were kept was suitable for human habitation. They also sought to know when distress calls were made, who received them, and what was done in response. The forum further called for the involvement of the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association, and credible civil society organisations in the investigation.
The Northern Senators Forum expressed sadness over the deaths, particularly given that the victims were reportedly confined in a small room and cried for help before choking to death. The senators emphasised that no Nigerian should lose their life in the custody of an agency established to protect lives and property. They stressed the need to uphold the sanctity of human life and the dignity of every person in custody.
The forum demanded independent autopsies on all 37 victims, with relatives of the deceased and independent pathologists allowed to participate in the process. They also called for the prosecution of anyone found to have contributed to the deaths through criminal negligence, unlawful detention, or reckless conduct. The senators emphasised that those responsible must be held accountable, regardless of their rank or position.
The Northern Senators Forum commended the Federal Government for ordering an investigation and praised the Niger State Government for its response, including support for the affected families and cooperation with investigators. The senators extended their condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State.
The incident has raised questions about the state of detention facilities operated by security agencies in Nigeria. The senators called for a nationwide review of these facilities to prevent a repeat of the tragedy. They emphasised that no Nigerian should ever again be placed in a situation where a cry for help becomes a cry that nobody answers.
The Northern Senators Forum has pledged to follow up on the investigation and ensure that justice is served. The senators reiterated their commitment to upholding human rights and dignity, particularly in the context of detention and custody. They urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the investigation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Key points
- The Northern Senators Forum demands an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody.
- The senators call for a nationwide review of detention facilities operated by security agencies.
- The forum demands independent autopsies and prosecution of those responsible for the deaths.
