The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. The directive was contained in a press release signed on Friday by ACC Babawale Afolabi, the Corps Spokesperson, following concerns over the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Minister Directs Transparent Investigation
Dr. Tunji-Ojo directed the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to conduct a transparent and unhindered investigation into the incident. The Minister's order came amid growing concerns about the treatment of suspects in custody and the need to uphold professional standards within the Corps.
In compliance with the directive, Prof Audi ordered the Niger State Commandant to step aside immediately. The Commandant is to report to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja alongside the Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation departments. This administrative action is aimed at ensuring that the investigation proceeds without any interference or bias.
New Commandant Deployed to Niger State
The NSCDC has also directed a new Commandant to proceed to Niger State and assume immediate command of the State Command. This move is intended to maintain operational continuity while the investigation into the deaths is ongoing.
According to the statement, the investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and establish whether any personnel violated the law, established procedures, or professional standards. The Corps has made it clear that any officer or personnel found culpable will face appropriate administrative, disciplinary, and, where applicable, criminal sanctions in line with extant laws and regulations.
NSCDC Reaffirms Commitment to Rights of Detainees
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of persons in its custody. The Corps stressed that enforcement of its mandate, including the fight against illegal mining and the protection of critical national assets, must be carried out within the law and established professional standards.
The investigation is expected to shed light on the specific events that led to the deaths and to hold any responsible personnel accountable. The outcome will also serve as a measure of the Corps' adherence to its stated commitment to lawful conduct and the protection of human rights in all its operations.
