The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for a full and independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
In a statement signed by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union said the deaths raised serious concerns about the treatment of detainees in state custody and urged authorities to determine whether negligence, abuse or a breach of procedure played any role in what happened.
The NUJ acknowledged steps already taken, including the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant pending investigation and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for a transparent inquiry.
It said, however, that public confidence in the process would depend on the investigation being independent, impartial and free from interference.
Among the issues the union wants examined are the circumstances of the miners’ arrest and detention, the conditions at the facility, including sanitation and access to food, water and medical care, and the exact causes of death, which it said should be confirmed through proper medical and forensic examination.
The union also called for protection of survivors, witnesses and the families of the deceased from any form of intimidation, and said anyone found responsible for wrongdoing should face accountability under due process.
While affirming the government’s right to act against illegal mining, the NUJ insisted that enforcement must remain within constitutional limits.
“Being suspected of illegal mining or any other offence does not remove a person’s right to humane treatment,” the statement said, adding that law enforcement and respect for human dignity are not competing goals.
The union expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm as authorities work to establish the facts, saying it expects the findings to be shared publicly once the investigation concludes.
