The Federal Government has inaugurated an independent investigative committee to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.
The detainees died on September 17 after they were arrested during enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining activities around the Wushishi and Lukoto areas of the state. The exact cause of death has not yet been conclusively established.
The development has generated public concern, particularly because the deaths occurred while the victims were in government custody. Authorities have therefore ordered investigations to determine what happened before, during and after their detention...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The Federal Government has now constituted a 10 member independent committee headed by retired Department of State Services Deputy Director General Jonathan Kure, while former Nigerian Law School Director General Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma serves as secretary.
The committee has been mandated to establish the identities of the deceased, examine the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, determine the cause of their deaths and identify any responsibility, negligence, misconduct or complicity connected to the incident. It is expected to submit its report within two weeks.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji Ojo said the government would not shield anyone found culpable. He also directed that records and other evidence connected to the incident be preserved and made available to investigators.
The minister warned that anyone who attempts to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the investigation would face legal consequences.
The Federal Government had earlier suspended the Niger State NSCDC commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, following the deaths. The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, also visited Niger State and said the police would work with relevant authorities to establish what led to the deaths.
The incident has also triggered protests in Minna, with authorities urging residents to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed. Niger State authorities had previously ordered forensic examinations, medical examinations and autopsies as part of efforts to determine the cause of the deaths.
While initial reports raised questions about conditions in detention, authorities have not yet established a definitive cause of death. The investigative committee is expected to provide clearer answers on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The government has assured the families of the deceased that the investigation will be allowed to run its course and that appropriate action will follow if wrongdoing is established.
The outcome of the probe is therefore expected to provide answers on how 37 people died in custody and whether any officials or other individuals should be held responsible.
