Inquiry begins into 37 miners’ deaths in NSCDC custody

The independent committee set up to investigate the reported deaths of 37 people in NSCDC custody has started sitting, opening a new phase in the Niger miners case.

The committee began work after its inauguration by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Its secretary, Isa Hayatu Chiroma, said the panel had adopted a work plan and would visit relevant sites, meet government agencies and interview survivors, suspects and others with direct knowledge of the incident.

A medical team attached to the committee has also begun work to determine the cause, mechanism and manner of the deaths. The inquiry is expected to gather documents and other materials needed to establish what happened after the miners were taken into custody.

The case has already drawn public pressure after earlier reports said the miners died after being held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State. NaijaTrend earlier reported the detention development here.

The new sitting does not by itself answer who was responsible. It does, however, move the matter from public outrage into a formal evidence-gathering process. The key questions now are whether the panel can establish the immediate cause of death, who had custody of the miners at each point, and whether officials followed lawful detention and medical procedures.

Sources: Channels Television, Daily Post, Punch