NUJ Demands Independent Probe Into Deaths of 37 Suspected Illegal Miners in Niger Custody
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has demanded a full, independent and transparent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The Union said the reported deaths constituted a matter of grave public concern, insisting that authorities must establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine whether negligence, abuse, misconduct or breaches of detention procedures contributed to the incident.
The position was contained in a statement signed by the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, and issued on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
The NUJ said the investigation must establish the circumstances surrounding the arrest, transfer and detention of the victims, the number of persons held at the facility and the conditions under which they were detained.
It also demanded scrutiny of the adequacy of ventilation, sanitation, food, water and other basic necessities, as well as the medical condition of the detainees and the medical assistance available to them.
“When citizens are taken into government custody, the state assumes a responsibility for their safety and humane treatment. Any death in custody therefore demands clear answers, credible investigation and accountability where wrongdoing is established,” the NUJ said.
The Union called for scientifically established determination of the precise causes and manner of death, including investigations into whether overcrowding, negligence, abuse, misconduct or breaches of established detention procedures occurred.
It further urged authorities to determine whether the actions or omissions of any individual or institution contributed to the deaths.
NUJ Demands Forensic Examinations, Protection of Witnesses
The journalists’ umbrella body called for appropriate medical, forensic and autopsy examinations in accordance with applicable laws and professional standards.
It also urged authorities to properly document the identities of the deceased and communicate relevant findings concerning their deaths to their families “with dignity and sensitivity.”
The NUJ welcomed the decision of the Federal Government and Niger State Government to investigate the incident, as well as the reported suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant pending investigation.
It also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for a full and transparent investigation but stressed that the credibility of the process would depend on its independence, impartiality, transparency and freedom from interference.
The Union called on authorities to protect survivors, witnesses and families of the deceased from intimidation, harassment or retaliation, adding that anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with due process and the law.
‘Illegal Mining Suspects Still Entitled to Humane Treatment’
While acknowledging the responsibility of government and security agencies to combat illegal mining and protect Nigeria’s natural resources, the NUJ insisted that enforcement operations must remain within the framework of the Constitution, rule of law and respect for human dignity and fundamental rights.
“Being suspected of illegal mining or any other offence does not remove a person’s right to humane treatment,” the Union said.
The NUJ stressed that law enforcement and accountability should operate together, noting that security agencies could enforce the law while respecting the rights and dignity of persons in their custody.
“Deaths in government custody must never become an administrative afterthought,” the Union said, demanding answers, accountability where wrongdoing is established and effective measures to prevent a recurrence.
The NUJ consequently called on the Federal Government, Niger State Government, NSCDC and relevant judicial, medical, security and human-rights institutions to ensure that the investigation is concluded expeditiously, independently and without interference.
It further demanded that the findings of the investigation be made available to the Nigerian public, reiterating its commitment to the protection of human life, transparency, accountability in public institutions, the rule of law and the fundamental right of every person in custody to humane treatment.
