ADC Demands Probe as 37 Miners Die in NSCDC Custody

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an immediate, independent and transparent 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 Niger State.

The party, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Friday, September 18, demanded independent autopsies to establish the exact cause of the deaths.

It also called for the release of the identities of the deceased and their detention records, compensation for their families, and prosecution of any officials found culpable.

The victims were among suspected illegal miners arrested during NSCDC enforcement operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Minna on September 15 and 16.

The NSCDC had earlier said the detainees were found dead in the early hours of September 17 following a suspected disease outbreak, while their bodies were deposited at the General Hospital in Minna for medical examination.

Reacting to the deaths, the ADC said the circumstances surrounding the incident must be thoroughly investigated, including the conditions under which the suspects were detained and the medical attention they received.

The party maintained that being arrested over alleged illegal mining did not remove the detainees’ rights to life, dignity and due process.

The ADC’s demand comes as authorities intensify investigations into the incident. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered the suspension of Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, pending a full investigation.

Meanwhile, the Niger State Government has constituted a committee of inquiry and announced plans for forensic examinations and autopsies to determine the cause of the deaths.

The developments have heightened calls for accountability and clarity over what happened to the detainees while they were in government custody.

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