Niger 37 Deaths: CSO Condemns Outbreak Of Violence, Demands Full Probe

A civil society organisation, CREAP Africa Initiative has expressed grief over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger state.

CREAP Africa Initiative in statement by its Executive Director, Sylvanus Udoenoh condemned the violence that followed the deaths, saying citizens have a legitimate right to demand answers, express grief, assemble peacefully and call for accountability.

The initiative, however, said the destruction of homes, businesses, vehicles and public property, attacks on innocent residents, arson and other acts of violence cannot be justified as legitimate protest.

It extended deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, saying the loss of 37 lives while in a state custody is a matter of profound public concern that demands nothing less than a swift, independent, transparent and comprehensive investigation.

“The exact circumstances and cause of the deaths must be established through credible evidence. Reports have presented differing accounts, including an initial suggestion of a possible disease outbreak and accounts from survivors pointing to severe overcrowding and inadequate ventilation. These conflicting accounts make an independent investigation even more necessary.

“Regardless of the allegations against the deceased or the circumstances that led to their arrest, detention does not strip anyone of their fundamental rights.

“A person suspected of committing an offence remains entitled to humane treatment, due process, dignity, and protection of life. The State assumes a heightened duty of care when it takes a person into custody.

“CREAP Africa Initiative therefore calls for the investigation to establish, among other things: the circumstances surrounding the arrest and detention of all 37 deceased persons; the actual cause and manner of each death; whether detention procedures, medical screening and custodial standards were followed…, the organisation demanded.

It stressed that where evidence establishes criminal responsibility or serious misconduct, those responsible, regardless of rank or position — must face prosecution in accordance with the law.*

“The suspension of officials is an important administrative step, but suspension must not become a substitute for accountability. As President Bola Tinubu has reportedly emphasized, the investigation must lead to justice where culpability is established.

“CREAP Africa Initiative equally condemns the violence that followed the deaths. At the same time, the State’s response to public demonstrations must remain lawful, proportionate and respectful of fundamental rights.

“Reports that security personnel used tear gas and that live rounds were fired during the protests require independent scrutiny. Any allegation of unlawful or excessive use of force must itself be investigated and, where established, appropriately sanctioned.

“We urge the people of Niger State to remain calm and reject further violence, destruction and retaliation. The grief and anger surrounding this tragedy are understandable, but further loss of life will not bring justice to the deceased.

“We call on community leaders, religious leaders, youth organizations, civil society groups and the media to promote peaceful engagement and prevent the situation from degenerating into wider communal unrest.

“We also urge the Niger State Government to ensure that any restrictions imposed for public safety are lawful, necessary, proportionate and time-bound*, and do not become instruments for suppressing legitimate civic expression.

“We therefore call on the federal government, the Ministry of Interior, NSCDC leadership and relevant oversight institutions to: ensure an independent investigation; publish the findings, establish individual accountability, protect evidence and strengthen forensic investigation, provide justice and support for families.”