37 Dead in NSCDC Custody: 24 Personnel Held as Investigation Deepens in Niger

The deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State have triggered a major investigation, with 24 NSCDC personnel now being held for questioning.

The victims died on September 17 after being arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining in the Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State. The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear.

The NSCDC initially suggested that a suspected disease outbreak may have caused the deaths. However, no final cause has been established, and authorities say investigations are still ongoing.

Concerns have also been raised about conditions inside the detention facility where the victims were held. Survivors reportedly spoke about overcrowding and other conditions at the facility, but it has not been established that these factors caused the deaths.

The Federal Government has set up a 10-member independent committee to investigate the incident, determine what happened and establish responsibility where necessary. President Bola Tinubu has also ordered a comprehensive investigation into the deaths.

The NSCDC said 24 officers linked to the incident have been placed in custody at its national headquarters. The personnel are expected to face questioning and disciplinary proceedings as investigators work to establish their roles in the incident.

The deaths sparked protests in Minna, prompting authorities to impose a curfew as tensions rose. The development has also intensified calls for transparency and accountability over the treatment of people held in government custody.

For now, the key question remains unanswered: what caused 37 people to die while in NSCDC custody? The independent investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine whether anyone should be held responsible.