Share!
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDRH) has condemned the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.
The human rights organisation called on the Federal Government to immediately constitute an independent judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine whether individuals or institutions should be held responsible.
In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Debo Adeniran, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Deacon Jeremiah Onyibe, the CDHR described the incident as a grave human rights concern requiring an urgent, transparent and independent investigation.
The group said the alleged offences of the deceased could not justify any violation of their fundamental rights while in government custody, stressing that every person in detention remained entitled to life, dignity and humane treatment.
The CDHR urged the proposed panel to establish the actual circumstances and causes of the deaths, examine the conditions under which the suspects were detained, identify those responsible and make its findings public.
It also called for the preservation of all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage, medical records, detention registers and other materials that could assist the investigation.
The organisation further demanded protection for witnesses and relatives of the deceased against possible intimidation during the process.
The deaths have sparked public concern over the conditions under which the suspects were detained and the medical attention available to them while in NSCDC custody.
While authorities have announced investigations into the incident, the CDHR maintained that an independent judicial panel was necessary to ensure transparency and restore public confidence in the process.
The group also called for the arrest and prosecution of anyone found to have been responsible for, involved in or facilitated the deaths, irrespective of rank or position.
The CDHR stressed that the government’s campaign against illegal mining must not be used as a justification for violating the fundamental rights of suspects in custody.
The organisation expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, saying they deserved clear answers and justice, and concluded its demands with a call for “truth, accountability and justice.”
