PRESS STATEMENT
HURPA EXPRESSES DEEP CONCERN OVER DEATH OF 37 NIGERIANS IN NSCDC CUSTODY, DEMANDS TRANSPARENT INVESTIGATION
For Immediate Release September 19, 2026
The Human Rights Pathfinders Association (HURPA) expresses deep sorrow and serious concern over the reported death of 37 Nigerians who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
HURPA is particularly disturbed by reports that some of those detained were young persons, including minors. The victims were reportedly arrested in connection with allegations of illegal mining activities.
While HURPA recognises the responsibility of law-enforcement agencies to enforce Nigeria's laws against illegal mining, an allegation of an offence can never amount to a death sentence. Every person in custody retains the fundamental right to life, dignity and humane treatment.
Of particular concern are accounts attributed to surviving detainees alleging severe overcrowding, poor ventilation, extreme conditions and the spraying of an unidentified substance inside the detention facility, after which some detainees reportedly began collapsing.
These allegations are extremely serious and must be subjected to an independent, transparent and credible investigation. HURPA welcomes the steps reportedly being taken by government authorities to investigate the deaths and urges that the process be conducted without interference.
HURPA DEMANDS:
A full, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Independent autopsies and forensic examinations to establish the actual cause of death.
The immediate preservation of all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage, detention records, medical records, custody registers and any substances or materials allegedly used within the facility.
Independent interviews with surviving detainees and witnesses, with adequate protection against intimidation or retaliation.
A clear determination of the ages, identities and circumstances of detention of all the victims, particularly those alleged to be minors.
Investigation into the allegation that an unidentified substance was sprayed inside the detention cell.
Accountability for any person found to have committed an unlawful act, abuse, negligence or violation of the rights of detainees.
Appropriate assistance, information and justice for the families of the deceased.
HURPA further calls for an urgent review of detention conditions in NSCDC facilities and other places of detention across the country to ensure that overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, lack of medical care or other preventable conditions do not place detainees' lives at risk.
The fight against illegal mining is a legitimate responsibility of government, but the enforcement of the law must itself remain within the law.
HURPA also urges authorities to ensure that investigations establish the facts before conclusions are reached regarding the cause of the deaths or responsibility for them.
Thirty-seven lives cannot simply become another statistic. Behind every number was a human being—a son, daughter, brother, father, friend or loved one whose family expected them to return home.
The Human Rights Pathfinders Association calls on the Federal Government and all relevant authorities to ensure that the truth is established, the families receive answers, and anyone found responsible for violations is held accountable in accordance with the law.
Human life must remain sacred, including the life of a person in detention.
Signed:Comr. Ejikeme Eloka Augustine Executive Director Human Rights Pathfinders Association (HURPA)Defending Rights. Empowering Communities. Demanding Justice.
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