The Northern Senators Forum has demanded an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 Nigerians in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The Forum, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, on Saturday, described the incident as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable,” following reports that the detainees were confined in a small room and allegedly choked to death after crying for help.
The senators said no Nigerian, irrespective of the allegations against him, should lose his life in the custody of an agency mandated to protect lives and property.
“No Nigerian, regardless of the allegation against him, should lose his life in the custody of an agency established to protect lives and property,” the Forum said, stressing that the dignity and sanctity of every person in custody must be protected.
The lawmakers demanded that the investigation establish who ordered the arrests, where the detainees were taken, who authorised their detention at the facility and whether the room was fit for human habitation.
They also want investigators to determine when distress calls were made, who received them, what action was taken and the precise circumstances
surrounding each death.
The Forum called for the involvement of the National Human Rights Commission, Nigerian Bar Association, credible civil society organisations and independent forensic experts in the investigation.
It further demanded independent autopsies on all 37 victims, with representatives of the families and independent pathologists allowed to participate.
“If criminal negligence, unlawful detention, reckless conduct or any deliberate act contributed to these deaths, those responsible must be prosecuted, irrespective of their rank or position,” it said.
The Forum also called for a nationwide review of detention facilities operated by security agencies to prevent a recurrence of the tragedy.
It commended the Federal Government for ordering an investigation and the Niger State Government for what it described as proactive steps, including support for the affected families and cooperation with investigators.
The senators expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State, praying for the repose of the victims’ souls.
