Investigation into Minna Deaths: Issues of Negligence and Training Lapses Found

The federal government’s Independent Investigative Committee looking into the deaths of 37 people in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, has found problems with how things are done, too much eagerness, and lack of proper training.

The committee’s Chairman, Jonathan Kure, shared this on Tuesday during a press conference in Abuja. He stressed that the panel has not yet finished figuring out what led to the deaths.

“There are elements of institutional breakdown. There are elements of overzealousness. Some elements that will require more personnel training,” Mr Kure said.

He mentioned that the committee has asked for an extra two weeks to complete its investigation and deliver what he called a “thorough and credible” report.

The committee was supposed to submit its report on 7 October but now wants to extend the deadline to 21 October.

Panel Awaits Forensic Reports

Mr Kure explained that the extension is necessary due to the large amount of evidence gathered and the need for forensic and pathology reports.

He said the committee has visited the NSCDC custody facility, performed autopsies, talked to survivors and families of the deceased, and taken statements from NSCDC staff and other witnesses.

The panel also checked the mining site and the Niger State Command headquarters of the NSCDC, where they looked at places linked to the incident.

According to Mr Kure, the committee has spoken with officers and personnel involved in the incident but is still talking to some of them.

“Because of the peculiar nature of this investigation, it involves a large volume of testimonies and evidence which require our meticulous review and collation,” he said.

He added that they are still waiting for forensic and pathology reports, which are important for determining the cause of the deaths.

The chairman also said the panel would give those involved in the incident, including suspended NSCDC officers, a chance to respond before making final decisions.

He assured that the committee intends to ensure that its findings are based on evidence and could stand up to scrutiny.

“We promised Nigerians a thorough job,” Mr Kure said.

He mentioned that the extra two weeks will be used to review documents and forensic evidence, collect outstanding medical reports, and hear from people whose actions may be relevant to the investigation.

37 Died in NSCDC Custody

The 37 individuals died after being arrested during enforcement operations around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Minna on 15 and 16 September.

The deaths were first reported as 33, but the Niger State Government confirmed that 37 people had died.

The official cause of death has not yet been determined.

This incident led the federal government to set up an independent committee to look into what happened, including the arrests and detention of the victims and any possible negligence or misconduct.

The committee has also visited affected communities, met with families of the deceased, and talked to survivors as part of their efforts to piece together what occurred.

Mr Kure stated that the panel is aware of the pain felt by the families and will avoid guesswork in reaching its conclusions.

The final report is expected to clarify what happened, determine who is responsible if applicable, and suggest measures to prevent such incidents in the future.