The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) is deeply shocked and saddened by the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to official reports, the 37 young men died in NSCDC custody in Minna after they were arrested during raids in the Wushishi-Lukoto area, west of Minna, on September 15 and 16. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago confirmed that 37 persons died in the custody of the civil defence in Minna, describing the incident as “so sad, so tragic”.
CAIDOV notes that while the Niger State NSCDC Command initially suggested a suspected outbreak of disease, an intelligence report seen by AFP suggested that the deaths may have been caused by poor ventilation in the cells and overcrowding, with survivors alleging that the miners died of suffocation. About 65 people were reportedly held in a single overcrowded cell, according to survivors.
Our position
Even though illegal mining is an offence, Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees the right to life. The custodial death of 37 citizens is unacceptable.
CAIDOV therefore demands:
- Preservation of evidence: Despite reports that all the deceased were buried on Thursday evening, the government must ensure that forensic autopsies are still possible and that evidence is not covered up.
- Independent investigation: Beyond the committee set up by Governor Bago, the Federal Government must empanel a truly independent inquiry involving the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and civil society organisations.
- Prosecution: The suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, is not enough. Anyone found culpable of negligence, torture or extrajudicial killing must be prosecuted.
- Compensation and support: Families who were waiting outside the hospital where the bodies were kept must be identified, supported and compensated.
- Reform of custodial facilities: Overcrowding, poor ventilation, and the denial of food and medical care must end in all detention facilities.
CAIDOV will be petitioning the Inspector-General of Police, who has already ordered an investigation following the discovery of scores of detainees dead; the Minister of Interior; and the National Human Rights Commission.
No Nigerian, no matter his alleged offence, deserves to die in custody.
Signed,
Comrade Soloki Moses Olugbenga
Executive Director
