The Northern Senators Forum has described the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable”.
A statement by Chairman of the Forum, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’adua, on Saturday, while mourning the victims, noted that the circumstances surrounding the deaths of suspected illegal miners, in which they were reportedly confined in a small room and cried for help before they choked to death, are deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
“No Nigerian, regardless of the allegation against him, should lose his life in the custody of an agency established to protect lives and property. The sanctity of human life and the dignity of every person in custody must be upheld at all times”, the statement read in part.
The Forum demanded an immediate, transparent and independent investigation, and autopsy into the entire chain of events.
“Nigerians must know who ordered the arrests, where the detainees were taken, who authorized their detention in the facility, whether the room was fit for human habitation, when the distress calls were made, who heard them, what action was taken, and the precise circumstances in which each victim died. The investigation should involve the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association, credible civil society organizations and independent forensic experts.
“We equally demand independent autopsies for all 37 victims, with representatives of the families and independent pathologists allowed to participate. If criminal negligence, unlawful detention, reckless conduct or any deliberate act contributed to these deaths, those responsible must be prosecuted, irrespective of their rank or position”.
Review Detention Facilities Nationwide
While commending the Federal Government for ordering an independent investigation into the crisis, the Forum also called for a review of detention facilities nationwide.
“This tragedy must also trigger a nationwide review of detention facilities operated by all security agencies to ensure that no Nigerian is ever again placed in a situation where a cry for help becomes a cry that nobody answers.
“The Northern Senators Forum commends the Federal Government for ordering a full and independent enquiry into this matter and the Niger State Government for the proactive steps taken so far, including support for the families and cooperation with investigators.”
The Forum extended its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and to the people of Niger State. May
“Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive the shortcomings of the departed, grant them Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and give their families the fortitude to bear this immeasurable loss.”
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