The CLEEN Foundation has called for an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The foundation, in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Peter Maduoma, said the incident raised serious concerns about detention conditions, accountability and the protection of the rights of persons in state custody. The detainees were arrested during NSCDC operations against illegal mining on September 15 and 16, 2026.
CLEEN said some of the victims were reportedly teenagers and internally displaced persons from Shiroro Local Government Area, adding that the deaths were discovered in the early hours of September 17. It urged authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident through an investigation independent of the NSCDC.
The foundation also questioned the initial description of the deaths as a suspected disease outbreak, noting that the cause of death had not been conclusively established. The NSCDC had said medical examinations would determine the actual cause, while subsequent investigations have continued.
CLEEN argued that allegations of illegal mining did not remove the constitutional rights of detainees, stressing that every person in state custody was entitled to humane treatment, due process and protection of life.
The organisation therefore called for an independent multi stakeholder panel comprising forensic experts, human rights organisations, civil society representatives and representatives of the affected communities and families.
It further demanded that officers responsible for the custody of the deceased be suspended where necessary pending investigation, while any person found culpable of negligence or misconduct should face prosecution in accordance with the law.
CLEEN also urged the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Interior and the National Human Rights Commission, to conduct a nationwide audit of detention facilities operated by the NSCDC, Nigeria Police Force and Nigerian Correctional Service.
The proposed audit, it said, should examine cell capacity, ventilation, sanitation, medical facilities and compliance with relevant provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and international standards, with remedial measures and timelines made public.
The foundation further demanded publication of investigation findings and accountability measures, as well as psychosocial support, funeral assistance and accessible compensation mechanisms for affected families. The Federal Government has since inaugurated a 10 member committee to investigate the deaths, with the committee given two weeks to submit its report.