Nigeria Forms Committee to Investigate NSCDC Custody Deaths

On 22nd September 2026, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Honourable Minister of Interior, inaugurated a ten-member Independent Investigative Committee in Abuja to investigate the deaths of 37 people in Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) custody in Niger State. This initiative was directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Minister emphasized the committee's independence and the necessity for justice for the deceased's families. He acknowledged the experience of the committee members, many of whom have served the nation for 35 to 40 years.

The committee's mandate includes establishing the identities of the deceased, investigating their arrest and detention circumstances, determining the cause of death through medical examinations, and recommending disciplinary actions and preventive measures. Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully and warned against any attempts to obstruct the investigation.

The committee members include Mr. Jonathan Kure (Chairman), Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma (Secretary), Hosea Hassan Karma, and Prof. Olayinka Buhari.