Youth group calls for autopsies, accountability and review of detention conditions after suspected illegal miners die in NSCDC custody
By Sani Wakili
Youth-led civil society group Matasa 360 Initiative has called for an independent investigation into the deaths of more than 30 detainees suspected of illegal mining while in the custody of Nigeria’s civil defence corps in Niger State.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sept. 17, the group said in a statement issued on Thursday, expressing concern over the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) is responsible for protecting critical national infrastructure and has powers to arrest and detain suspects in cases including illegal mining.
Matasa 360 Executive Director Aminu Mallum said the group extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and called for an investigation into what happened.
“No Nigerian should lose their life in detention under circumstances that remain unclear,” Mallum said.
The group said reports of overcrowding, poor ventilation and inadequate medical care at the detention facility, if confirmed, would raise serious human rights concerns.
It called for an independent investigation into the immediate and underlying causes of the deaths, including autopsies and the public release of their findings.
It also demanded accountability for any officials found to have acted negligently or to have contributed to the deaths, as well as a review of detention conditions across NSCDC commands.
The group commended Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for suspending the NSCDC commandant in Niger State pending an investigation and urged authorities to ensure the probe was conducted without interference.
Matasa 360 also appealed for calm among youths in Minna, urging them to remain law-abiding and avoid actions that could worsen tensions.
“Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done,” the group said.