A Nigerian federal inquiry linked 33 deaths in Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) custody to severe detention conditions, recommending prosecutions and ₦1.4 billion in compensation for bereaved families and survivors.
The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation said the committee verified 33 deaths, including 14 minors, and identified 41 survivors. Medical and forensic evidence pointed to environmental asphyxia, or acute respiratory failure, aggravated by heat and dehydration. The committee also found that officers failed to respond to repeated distress calls.
PUNCH reported that the committee authenticated 33 deaths, compared with initial accounts of 37. An Associated Press report published Tuesday, Oct. 27, continued to describe 37 deaths.
PUNCH reported that roughly 50 men shared a cell of about 20 square meters, with poor airflow, no running water and no working toilet. It also said the committee found that operations against suspected illegal mining on Sept. 15 and 16 proceeded without an approved order and before NSCDC national headquarters was informed.
The panel called for the dismissal and, where appropriate, prosecution of officers found responsible. It also proposed education support for dependents and medical and psychological care for survivors and affected families. PUNCH reported that the compensation proposal allocated ₦30 million to each of 33 bereaved families and ₦10 million to each of 41 survivors. Channels Television reported that 44 survivors were included in the compensation recommendation; reports did not resolve the difference.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said Tuesday the report would go to Nigeria’s federal justice leadership for judicial action. He said, “No officer found culpable will be shielded.” The government said it would review the recommendations and announce its decisions. It also said it would work with the NSCDC on detention-facility standards, oversight and staff training.
