Isiyaku Ahmed
The Centre for Human Rights and Social Advancement (CEFSAN) has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 persons suspected of illegal mining while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
CEFSAN, in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Yusha’u Sani Yankuzo, on Friday, said the victims were reportedly arrested during enforcement operations around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state on September 15 and 16, 2026.
The organisation said the detainees were subsequently held in NSCDC custody, where they were later found dead.
It noted that the precise cause of the deaths had not been scientifically established, adding that authorities had announced investigations, medical examinations and autopsies.
CEFSAN said reports from survivors had also raised concerns over alleged overcrowding and inadequate ventilation at the detention facility.
While acknowledging the government’s responsibility to enforce laws against illegal mining, the organisation stressed that suspects remained entitled to the rights to life, dignity, humane treatment and due process while in custody.
“The death of 37 detainees in circumstances that remain under investigation is an extremely serious human rights matter,” the statement said.
CEFSAN called for comprehensive autopsies and forensic examinations, with the findings made public and communicated to the victims’ families.
It also demanded a full investigation into the arrests, detention conditions and deaths, including the number of detainees, duration of detention, access to food, water and medical care, ventilation, monitoring of detainees and actions taken when they began experiencing distress.
The organisation urged authorities to preserve relevant evidence, including CCTV footage, detention registers, arrest records, medical records, duty rosters and communication logs.
It further called for anyone found culpable to face prosecution or appropriate disciplinary sanctions in accordance with the law.
CEFSAN also demanded protection and support for survivors and witnesses, as well as prompt identification of the deceased, notification of their relatives and dignified treatment of their remains.
The group noted the reported suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and the investigations announced by the authorities, but said such measures must lead to a process that is “genuinely independent, credible and capable of establishing the truth.”
It also urged security agencies to exercise restraint during public demonstrations over the incident, while encouraging citizens to pursue accountability through lawful and peaceful means.
CEFSAN called for a broader examination of poverty, unemployment and inadequate livelihood opportunities that drive people into informal and illegal mining, stressing that enforcement of mining laws must respect human rights.
“The 37 lives lost must not become a statistic,” the organisation said, urging the Federal Government, Niger State Government, NSCDC, Nigeria Police Force and other investigative authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, publish their findings and ensure justice for the victims.
