The Northern Senators Forum has called for an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 young Nigerians in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna, Niger State, North-Central Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, the Forum described the circumstances surrounding the deaths as deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
The victims were reportedly confined in a small room and cried for help before they allegedly choked to death.
The Northern Senators Forum stressed that no Nigerian, regardless of the allegations against them, should lose their life while in the custody of an agency mandated to protect lives and property.
It demanded answers on who ordered the arrests, where the detainees were taken, who authorised their detention at the facility and whether the room was fit for human habitation.
The Forum also wants investigators to establish when distress calls were made, who heard them, what action was taken and the precise circumstances surrounding the death of each victim.
It called for the investigation to involve the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, credible civil society organisations and independent forensic experts.
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The Forum further demanded independent autopsies for all 37 victims, with representatives of their families and independent pathologists allowed to participate.
It said anyone found culpable of criminal negligence, unlawful detention, reckless conduct or any deliberate act that contributed to the deaths should be prosecuted, regardless of rank or position.
The lawmakers also called for a nationwide review of detention facilities operated by security agencies to prevent a recurrence.
The Northern Senators Forum commended the Federal Government for ordering a full and independent inquiry into the incident, as well as the Niger State Government for its response, including support for the affected families and cooperation with investigators.
The Forum expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State, praying for the repose of the victims’ souls and strength for their families to bear the loss.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
