Niger NSCDC custody deaths: Families demand justice after panel report
An official investigation confirmed 33 deaths, including 14 minors, while bereaved families and survivors are pressing for accountability and the return of seized belongings.
Families and survivors of the deaths in Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps custody in Niger State are demanding justice and the return of property seized during arrests, Reuters reported on October 30.
The demands follow an investigation that linked the fatalities to overcrowding, extreme heat, dehydration and failures of care. Reuters reported that relatives wanted accountability, while survivors sought the return of belongings taken during their arrest.
The Federal Government received the independent investigative committee’s report on October 27. Its official account said the committee confirmed 33 deaths, including 14 minors, and identified 41 survivors.
The committee attributed the deaths to severe overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, extreme heat and dehydration. It also identified failures to respond to repeated distress calls, unlawful detention practices and poor supervision.
Earlier death toll differs from panel’s count
The government’s September 19 announcement establishing the investigation referred to 37 reported deaths in NSCDC custody in Niger State. It said the incident occurred on September 17.
That earlier figure also appears in Reuters’ October 30 report. The subsequent official account of the committee’s findings gives a confirmed toll of 33. The official October 27 statement did not explain the difference between the two figures.
Compensation remains a recommendation
The committee recommended ₦1.4 billion in compensation, alongside educational assistance for dependants, medical and psychological support, and a formal government apology.
It also recommended dismissal and prosecution of officers found responsible, where appropriate. The government’s October 27 statement said it would study the recommendations and announce its decisions. The statement did not establish that compensation had been approved or paid.
Report referred for judicial action
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo initially said the report would be forwarded to the Attorney-General of the Federation for further judicial action.
The minister subsequently said the report had been forwarded to the Attorney-General’s office, according to Premium Times. A referral does not establish that criminal proceedings have begun. The sources reviewed do not establish that charges have been filed.
