DEATH OF 37 ILLEGAL MINERS IN NIGER STATE: CAIDOV DEMANDS FULL INDEPENDENT PROBE

The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence – CAIDOV is deeply shocked and saddened over 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 it 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 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 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. Custodial death of 37 citizens is unacceptable.

CAIDOV therefore demands:

1. Preserve Evidence: Despite reports that all of the deceased were buried on Thursday evening, government must ensure forensic autopsy is still possible and not cover up evidence.
2. Independent Investigation: Beyond the committee set up by Governor Bago, the Federal Government must empanel a truly independent inquiry including NHRC, NBA, and Civil Society.
   3.Prosecution: The suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant Suberu Aniviye is not enough. Anyone found culpable for negligence, torture or extra-judicial killing must be prosecuted.

4.Compensation & Support: Families who were waiting outside hospital where bodies are stored must be identified, supported and compensated.

5.Reform Custodial Facilities: Overcrowding, poor ventilation and 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 investigation following 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

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