The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has called for a full, independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The forum’s chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, said Nigerians deserve clear answers on the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
He demanded that the investigation establish who ordered the arrests, authorised the detention and was responsible for the facility where the victims were held, as well as when distress calls were made and what action was taken.
The senators called for the involvement of the National Human Rights Commission, Nigerian Bar Association, credible civil society organisations and independent forensic experts.
They also demanded independent autopsies for all 37 victims, with family representatives and independent pathologists participating in the process.
The NSF said anyone found responsible for unlawful detention, criminal negligence, reckless conduct or other actions that contributed to the deaths should face prosecution, regardless of their position.
The senators further urged a nationwide review of detention facilities operated by security agencies to prevent a recurrence.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.