Civil Groups Defend NSCDC Chief Amid Niger Deaths

Civil society groups, including the Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence and Media for Equity and Good Governance, cautioned against blaming Prof. Ahmed Audi, Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for the deaths of suspected illegal miners in custody in Minna, Niger State. At a joint press briefing in Lagos, the groups, represented by Gbenga Soloki and Rev. Femi Adepoju, emphasized that public officials should not be condemned without evidence and due process.

They called for a transparent investigation to ascertain the facts and responsibilities of those involved. The groups noted that while the Commandant-General provides strategic leadership, he cannot oversee every operation personally.

They urged the public to consider the NSCDC's broader operational record under Audi and highlighted the importance of establishing credible evidence before assigning blame. The groups also suggested that the investigation's outcome should be used to strengthen the NSCDC and improve its operational capacity.