The Action Alliance (AA) under the leadership of Chief Barr. Kenneth Udeze
has received with shock, sadness and outrage the news of the death of 37 Nigerians in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
These were 37 citizens arrested on September 15 and 16 in M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto villages over alleged illegal mining, who were found dead in the early hours of September 17th while in state custody. 62a5
The initial claim of a “disease outbreak” by the Niger State Command of NSCDC is not only suspicious but an insult to Nigerians.
Intelligence reports and survivor accounts point to overcrowding, poor ventilation, suffocation and possible spraying of harmful substances inside a cell where 67 persons were cramped together.
This is extra-judicial killing by negligence, and it is totally unacceptable in a democracy.
We in the Action Alliance state as follows:
*1. This is a gross violation of Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Illegal mining does not strip a Nigerian of his right to life, dignity and fair hearing.
*2. We commend Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for confirming the deaths and declaring three days of mourning, but we demand more than mourning. We demand accountability.
3. We welcome the Federal Government’s 10-man independent probe panel set up by Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo on the orders of President Tinubu. However, this probe must not be swept under the carpet like others.
THEREFORE, THE ACTION ALLIANCE DEMANDS:
a) An open, transparent and independent forensic autopsy on all 37 bodies as demanded by the NHRC, with families represented.
b) Immediate prosecution of all officers found culpable for negligence, complicity or cover-up.
c) Adequate compensation for the families of the deceased, many of whom are IDPs and artisanal miners struggling to survive.
d) Urgent reform of all detention facilities of NSCDC, Police and other agencies nationwide.
The lives of 37 poor miners matter as much as the lives of 37 governors. A government that cannot protect citizens in its own cells has lost its moral right to govern.
We stand with the people of Niger State and with the families of the deceased.
Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done.
Signed:
Chief Barr. Kenneth Udeze,
National Chairman,
Action Alliance (AA)
Faduri Joseph (FADOJOE)
AA Presidential Candidate
