ADC CALLS FOR PROBE, AUTOPSIES INTO DEATHS OF 37 ILLEGAL MINERS

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By:Aminat Tajudeen

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an immediate, independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 Nigerians who reportedly died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

In a statement issued on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party also demanded independent autopsies, the release of the identities and detention records of the deceased, compensation for their families, and prosecution of any officials found culpable.

The 37 suspected illegal miners were arrested during enforcement operations in M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto villages in Niger State and reportedly died while in NSCDC custody.

The NSCDC Niger State Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, said the suspects were arrested during operations conducted on September 15 and 16.

Reacting to the deaths, the ADC said the suspects remained entitled to their constitutional rights to life, dignity and due process despite being arrested during raids on mining sites.

The party argued that poverty, unemployment or allegations of illegal mining should not result in the loss of citizens’ lives.

The ADC said the incident raised concerns about the treatment of detainees in government custody and called on the authorities to establish the circumstances that led to the deaths.

The party also linked the incident to what it described as worsening economic hardship and unemployment, alleging that many Nigerians had been pushed into dangerous means of survival.

It further alleged that enforcement efforts against illegal mining often target poor miners while influential individuals and criminal networks involved in financing illegal mining remain largely untouched.

The ADC urged the Federal Government to ensure accountability and provide justice for the deceased and their families.

It also called for greater transparency from security agencies and measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.