Law Graduates Association Demands Justice Following Death of 37 Detainees in NSCDC Custody
MINNA, Niger State — The Law Graduates Association of Nigeria (LAWGAN) has issued a scathing condemnation following the reported death of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State. The association, representing a body of legal professionals, has labeled the incident “deeply troubling” and is calling for a comprehensive, independent, and transparent investigation into the tragedy.
In a joint statement issued by President Kayode Bello and Public Relations Officer Ojo Clement, the association acknowledged the government’s mandate to combat illegal mining and maintain national security. However, they stressed that law enforcement efforts must never supersede the fundamental human rights guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
“The fact that the deceased were arrested on suspicion of illegal mining does not deprive them of their constitutional right to life, dignity, and humane treatment,” the statement emphasized.
LAWGAN has outlined seven critical areas that must be addressed by federal authorities and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure accountability. These include clarifying the conditions of the detention facility, determining the scientific cause of death, and investigating whether any officers engaged in negligence, excessive force, or other forms of misconduct. The association explicitly demands to know if the deaths could have been prevented and who, if anyone, bears individual responsibility for the failure of duty.
The incident has already prompted federal intervention, with the government suspending the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and convening an investigative committee. While LAWGAN welcomed these preliminary steps, they warned that the process must lead to a “credible determination of the facts” and, if evidence of wrongdoing is found, full criminal prosecution.
To ensure the integrity of the probe, the association urged authorities to preserve all potential evidence, including detention logs, medical records, communication transcripts, and available CCTV footage. They asserted that the Nigerian public and the grieving families are entitled to complete transparency.
“No person should lose his or her life in government custody under circumstances that remain unexplained or questionable,” the statement added. “Where evidence ultimately establishes that any person died as a result of unlawful conduct or criminal abuse of power by the officers, those responsible must be held accountable through due process of law.”
As the investigation unfolds, LAWGAN has appealed to the public for calm, urging citizens to avoid acts of violence or retaliation. They maintained that while the pursuit of justice is paramount, it must be conducted strictly within the confines of the law.
“The Nigerian people deserve to know what happened to these 37 persons. Their families deserve answers. The nation deserves accountability,” the association concluded.
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