FAMILIES SEEK ACCOUNTABILITY OVER NIGER DETENTION DEATHS

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Families of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State have called for justice and accountability over the incident.

The deaths occurred after the suspects were arrested in Niger State in September. The circumstances surrounding the fatalities have prompted investigations by the Federal Government and demands from relatives for answers.

The families have reportedly rejected a N100,000 condolence payment offered by the Niger State Government, saying they want authorities to establish what happened to their relatives and ensure that those found responsible are held accountable.

The Federal Government has constituted a 10-member independent investigative committee to examine the incident. The panel is expected to establish the identities of the deceased, determine the immediate and remote causes of the deaths, and examine the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention.

The committee will also assess the legality and conditions of the detention facility and determine whether relevant laws, procedures and human rights standards were followed.

The government has said the investigation will be comprehensive and transparent, while relatives continue to demand justice and appropriate compensation for the loss of their loved ones.

The incident has also drawn calls from political groups and civil society actors for accountability and an independent investigation.