Omanghana
Armed security personnel and military forces have been deployed to Minna, the capital of Niger State in central Nigeria, following days of protests over the deaths of 37 people in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps.
Many of the victims were reportedly teenagers and young adults between the ages of 14 and 18. They had been detained after NSCDC personnel conducted raids on suspected illegal gold-mining sites in the Wushishi-Lukoto area.
The detainees were being held in NSCDC cells when the deaths occurred. Survivors and relatives alleged that the facilities were severely overcrowded, poorly ventilated and filled with a disturbing smell.
Some survivors reportedly said detainees struggled to breathe and repeatedly called for assistance, but their appeals were ignored. These allegations have not yet been independently established, while authorities say the precise cause of the deaths remains under investigation.
Several possible explanations have emerged, including suffocation caused by severe overcrowding, exposure to hazardous chemicals associated with mining activities and an unidentified illness. Officials have yet to confirm any of these theories.
News of the deaths triggered public anger and brought hundreds of demonstrators onto the streets of Minna to demand justice and accountability.
Some protesters were reportedly armed with sticks, machetes and traditional hunting rifles. The demonstrations later became violent as crowds clashed with security personnel and allegedly attempted to attack government facilities.
Security forces used tear gas and reportedly fired live ammunition in an effort to disperse the protesters and prevent further unrest.
Niger State Governor Umar Bago subsequently imposed a strict curfew to restrict movement, restore calm and prevent further attacks on public property.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also ordered a comprehensive federal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The inquiry is expected to examine the conditions in which the detainees were held, the conduct of officers and whether proper detention procedures were followed.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo suspended the Niger State NSCDC commandant and key operational officials in the region pending the outcome of the investigation.
The suspensions are intended to allow the inquiry to proceed without interference and determine responsibility for the incident.
Security personnel remain stationed at strategic locations across Minna as authorities work to restore order. Families of the deceased and protesters continue to demand an independent investigation, prosecution of anyone found responsible and compensation for the victims.
Source: Omanghana
