CAIDOV Demands Independent Probe Into Death Of 37 Illegal Mining Suspects In Niger

The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) has called for a full and independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

The group, in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Soloki Moses Olugbenga, described the incident as shocking and unacceptable, stressing that the right to life remains guaranteed under Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution, irrespective of the alleged offence of any detainee.

The 37 suspects were arrested during NSCDC operations against illegal mining around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026.

The NSCDC initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, while authorities have said investigations are ongoing to establish the actual cause.

CAIDOV said reports of overcrowding and poor ventilation in the detention facility, including allegations that dozens of detainees were held in a single cell, made an independent investigation imperative.

The organisation noted that Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago had confirmed the death of 37 detainees and that several investigations had since been initiated. The Federal Government has also ordered an independent probe and suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and other officers pending the outcome of the investigation.

CAIDOV called for the preservation of evidence and said forensic autopsies should still be pursued despite reports that the bodies had been buried.

It also demanded that the Federal Government constitute a truly independent inquiry involving institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and civil society organisations.

The group further called for the prosecution of any official found responsible for negligence, torture or extrajudicial killing, insisting that the suspension of the NSCDC commandant alone would not be sufficient if wrongdoing is established.

CAIDOV also demanded that the families of the deceased be identified, supported and adequately compensated, while calling for comprehensive reforms of custodial facilities to address overcrowding, poor ventilation and inadequate access to food and medical care.

The organisation said it would petition the Inspector-General of Police, the Minister of Interior and the National Human Rights Commission over the incident.

“No Nigerian, no matter his alleged offence, deserves to die in custody,” CAIDOV said.

The Federal Government has meanwhile constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths, while additional experts have been deployed to Niger State to assist with determining the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.