ADC questions Tinubu govt over deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners

The African Democratic Congress ADC has demanded an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody in Niger State.

The party also wants transparency about the deaths. It called for independent autopsies and the release of the victims’ identities and detention records.

In a statement on Friday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi demanded compensation for the families. He also called for the prosecution of officials found responsible.

NSCDC officers arrested the victims during operations against illegal mining. The arrests took place in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas on September 15 and 16.

The NSCDC initially said a suspected disease outbreak caused the deaths. The detainees died in the early hours of September 17.

However, the Corps later said it had not established the cause of death. It said medical examinations would determine what happened.

The ADC said the deaths raised concerns about the treatment of people in government custody.

The party argued that allegations of illegal mining do not remove detainees’ rights. Those rights include life, dignity and due process.

“Thirty-seven Nigerians entered government custody alive. Their families are now being asked to receive their bodies,” the party said.

The ADC urged the Federal Government to explain the deaths. It also questioned how the suspects died within days of their arrest.

The ADC linked the incident to the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians.

It said unemployment and rising living costs push some vulnerable people into dangerous activities. The party urged the government to address these economic pressures.

At the same time, it said authorities should continue enforcing laws against illegal mining.

The party also questioned the focus of enforcement operations. It alleged that authorities often target poorer miners.

According to the ADC, those who finance or control illegal mining networks may escape prosecution.

“Poverty is not a capital offence. Unemployment is not a death sentence,” the party said.

The Federal Government has ordered an investigation into the deaths. It also suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye.

The NSCDC has formed an investigative team to examine the incident.

Meanwhile, the Niger State Government has set up a committee of inquiry. The committee will determine the cause and circumstances of the deaths.

Authorities deposited the bodies at General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago also declared three days of mourning for the victims.

The ADC urged the government to publish the findings of the investigations.

It also called for legal action against anyone found responsible for violating the detainees’ rights.

Medical examinations and official inquiries will determine the cause of the deaths.