The Federal Government has formed a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths of 37 detainees who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the committee on Saturday following a directive from President Bola Tinubu. The detainees died on Thursday while held by the NSCDC Niger State Command over suspected illegal mining activities. An official cause of death has not yet been established.

The panel is tasked with identifying the deceased, examining the circumstances of their arrest and detention, and determining the exact cause of death. The committee will also investigate potential negligence, complicity, or misconduct, and recommend appropriate actions and preventive measures.

“Any attempt to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the investigation will be treated as a serious offence,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

Retired Department of State Services Deputy Director-General Jonathan Kure will chair the committee, with former Nigerian Law School Director-General Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma serving as secretary. The panel includes representatives from security agencies, the Niger State Government, the Miners Association of Nigeria, the Minna Emirate Council, human rights advocacy, and media.

The committee holds the authority to visit relevant sites, co-opt experts, examine documents, and request public memoranda. It has been given two weeks to submit its findings to the Interior Ministry.

Tunji-Ojo expressed condolences to the grieving families and appealed for public calm as the investigation proceeds.