Joel Ajayi

De Norsemen Kclub International (DNKI) has commended the Federal Government for constituting a 10-member independent investigative committee to probe the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

In a statement Signed on Saturday by International President, De Norsemen Kclub International (DNKI) Chief Oliver Patrick Ityohegh in Abuja stated that the decision is an important step towards uncovering the truth behind the tragic incident, ensuring accountability and restoring public confidence in the investigation.

The 37 detainees died on Sept. 17, 2026, while in the custody of the NSCDC Niger State Command, following their arrest over suspected illegal mining activities. The circumstances surrounding their deaths have generated serious concerns and calls for a transparent investigation.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, acting on the directive of President Bola Tinubu, constituted the independent committee to establish the identities of the deceased, examine the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, determine the cause and manner of their deaths, and establish whether negligence, misconduct or other wrongdoing occurred. The committee has been given two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its report.

DNKI commended the Federal Government for taking the matter seriously and for taking steps to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and without interference.

DNKI also acknowledged the suspension of officers connected with the incident pending the outcome of the investigation, describing the measure as necessary to preserve the integrity of the investigative process.

DNKI considers the death of 37 persons in circumstances involving state custody a matter of grave national concern.

While the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident must be established through due investigation, the organisation emphasised that every human life is valuable and that persons in lawful custody are entitled to protection, dignity and humane treatment.

“We commend the Federal Government for responding to this tragic incident by establishing an independent investigative committee. This is an important step towards determining what happened and ensuring that the families of the deceased and the Nigerian public receive a credible account of the circumstances surrounding the deaths.”

DNKI urged the committee to conduct its assignment thoroughly, impartially and transparently, including examining the circumstances of the victims’ arrest and detention, the conditions under which they were held, the events leading to their deaths, and any actions or omissions that may have contributed to the tragedy.

DNKI called on the Federal Government to ensure that the findings and recommendations of the committee are made public upon completion of the investigation, subject to lawful considerations, in the interest of transparency, accountability and public confidence.

The organisation also urged the Niger State Government to ensure that its own inquiry into the incident complements the federal investigation and contributes meaningfully to establishing the facts.

DNKI maintained that any individual found, after due investigation and due process, to have committed unlawful acts, negligence, abuse of authority, concealment of evidence or other wrongdoing connected with the deaths should face appropriate legal or disciplinary consequences.

As a humanitarian organisation, DNKI stressed that justice must not only be pursued but must also produce a clear and credible outcome for the affected families and the wider Nigerian public.

Beyond determining individual responsibility, DNKI urged the relevant authorities to review detention procedures, custodial conditions, arrest protocols, medical and emergency response arrangements, as well as oversight mechanisms within security agencies, to prevent a recurrence.

The organisation appealed to Nigerians to remain calm and allow the investigative process to run its course, while urging all relevant institutions and individuals to cooperate fully with the committee and preserve all records, evidence and information required for the investigation.

DNKI commiserated with the families, relatives, friends and communities of the deceased, as well as the Government and people of Niger State, over the painful loss.

As an organisation committed to “Service to Humanity,” DNKI reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, justice, responsible citizenship, human dignity, national unity and accountability.

The organisation will continue to engage constructively with government and other stakeholders on issues affecting the lives, security and welfare of Nigerians, particularly the protection of vulnerable persons and respect for human rights.

DNKI extends its heartfelt condolences to all families affected by the tragedy and prays for strength and comfort for them during this difficult period.

May the souls of the departed rest in peace.

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