The deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody in Niger State have prompted a human rights group, Hope Behind Bars Africa, to demand an independent investigation into how the detainees died.
Hope Behind Bars Africa said that the deceased were arrested on suspicion of illegal mining but had not been tried or convicted before their deaths. It said their detention placed the responsibility for their safety and welfare on the Nigerian state.
The group made the demand on Friday in a statement signed by Ogechi Ogwuma. This came after reports from survivors raised questions about the conditions inside the detention facility.
Survivors raise questions over detention
Ogwuma said survivors reported severe overcrowding, poor ventilation, extreme heat and a lack of water in the facility.
The survivors reportedly said detainees were packed into a cell where breathing was difficult. It was also claimed that people inside repeatedly called for help.
Hope Behind Bars Africa said the reports must be tested through a rigorous and independent investigation, noting that such an inquiry was needed to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
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The group welcomed the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant. However, it said the investigation should not stop with the head of the command.
It said officers who had command, custodial, supervisory or welfare responsibilities at the facility during the period should also be examined.
The organisation further demanded that officers directly connected with the arrest, detention, supervision and welfare of the deceased be removed from custodial duties pending the investigation.
It also rejected an internal NSCDC inquiry as sufficient, asking for an investigation that is transparent and has a clear time limit.
The proposed inquiry, it said, should first establish the circumstances surrounding the arrests and the number of people held at the facility.
It should also examine the lawful capacity of the cell and whether detainees had access to water, food, ventilation and medical care.
The group said investigators should assess the temperature and physical conditions inside the facility. They should also examine how officers responded when detainees reportedly showed signs of distress.
Another area it wants examined is the timeline and circumstances surrounding each death, as well as the conduct of officers responsible for the detainees.
Ogwuma also called for protection for survivors, relatives of the deceased and other witnesses who may provide information to investigators.
The group said anyone found through credible evidence to have criminal responsibility should face criminal investigation and prosecution through due process.
The deaths have also raised a basic legal issue highlighted by the organisation: the 37 detainees had not been convicted of illegal mining.
Hope Behind Bars Africa said people in that position were entitled to the presumption of innocence and protection of their fundamental rights.
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