NHRC Demands Investigation into Miners' Deaths in Custody

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) condemned the deaths of approximately 37 individuals suspected to be artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State. The NHRC, led by Executive Secretary Professor Tony Ojukwu, SAN, called for an independent forensic autopsy and the preservation of all evidence related to the incident.

This demand follows the miners' arrest during enforcement operations in the Wushishi-Lukoto area on September 15 and 16. Ojukwu emphasized the need for a transparent and thorough investigation, as ordered by the Interior Minister and the NSCDC, which must adhere to international standards for investigating potentially unlawful deaths in custody.

He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and urged law enforcement agencies to respect the constitutional rights of citizens, asserting that suspicion of illegal mining does not negate these rights. The NHRC has initiated a preliminary investigation to determine the cause of death and has called for calm among the youth in Minna.