The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has demanded an independent forensic autopsy and the preservation of all evidence relating to the deaths of about 37 persons suspected to be artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The Executive Secretary, NHRC, Tony Ojukwu (SAN), who condemned the incident and commiserated with the deceased’s families and the people of the state, disclosed that a preliminary investigation of the incident has been ordered to ascertain the cause of death of the miners in custody.
The NHRC boss noted that the investigation ordered by the Interior Minister and the NSCDC must be transparent and thorough, and must comply with international standards for investigating potentially unlawful deaths in custody.
Ojukwu was quoted, in a statement issued on Friday by NHRC’s Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Fatimah Mohammed, as expressing deep concern over the incident, which occurred after the miners were arrested during enforcement operations in the Wushishi-Lukoto area on September 15 and 16.
He reminded law enforcement agencies that suspicion of illegal mining does not extinguish citizens’ constitutional rights, adding that every person in custody must be treated with dignity in accordance with the law.
Ojukwu said, ‘Citizens who are arrested on suspicion by law enforcement agents are by law expected to enjoy the full complement of their fundamental human rights in accordance with national and international human rights instruments.’
He urged youths in Minna (the capital of Niger State) to remain calm and refrain from violence, assuring them that the NHRC will ensure accountability and apply appropriate remedies where violations are established.