The Federal Network for Mining and Humanitarian Concerns (FNMHC) has called for a comprehensive and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths of 37 miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The organisation said the reported incident raises serious questions that require urgent clarification, particularly regarding the circumstances leading to the deaths, the condition of the deceased while in custody, and the actions taken by relevant authorities before and after the incident.
FNMHC urged the Federal Government and relevant security authorities to ensure that the investigation is transparent, thorough and capable of establishing the facts surrounding the deaths.
According to the organisation, accountability is essential whenever lives are lost in government or security custody, and the families of those who died deserve clear answers.
FNMHC also called for appropriate forensic and medical examinations where necessary, as well as the preservation of relevant records and evidence that could assist investigators in determining what happened.
The organisation further urged the authorities to identify any individual or institution whose actions or omissions may have contributed to the deaths and to take appropriate action where wrongdoing is established.
FNMHC stressed that the investigation should not be prejudged and that all parties involved should be given the opportunity to present evidence and respond to allegations.
The group commended the decision by the Ministry of Interior to initiate a probe into the incident, describing a transparent investigation as an important step towards establishing the truth and preventing a recurrence.
It also appealed to the authorities to keep the families of the deceased informed throughout the investigative process and ensure that affected families receive appropriate support.
FNMHC said the safety, dignity and fundamental rights of persons held in government custody must remain a priority, regardless of the circumstances that led to their detention.
The organisation therefore urged all relevant agencies to cooperate fully with investigators and ensure that the outcome of the probe is made public in accordance with applicable laws and due process.
