Comrade Dominic Alancha, a social activist and activist, has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of 37 alleged illegal miners who were detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja on Tuesday, Alancha discussed the incident and stated that calls for the dismissal of NSCDC Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi should wait till the inquiry is over.
Recall that after being detained during operations against suspected illegal mining activities, at least 37 detainees—including minors—died in NSCDC custody in Minna, Niger State.
While NSCDC members have been detained in relation to the tragedy, the Federal Government has established an impartial committee to look into the facts behind the deaths.
Alancha expressed sympathy to the relatives of the deceased while commenting on the occurrence, calling it a “ugly incident” that should have been prevented.
He claimed that the episode had brought attention to the safety and well-being of prisoners held by security and paramilitary organisations.
He believes that the current investigation should determine what transpired, particularly the circumstances underlying the victims’ arrest and imprisonment.
Alancha praised Audi for the actions done thus far, such as the suspension of employees, but urged additional action to guarantee a “continuous investigation.”
Since then, 24 employees have been held by the NSCDC in relation to the killings, including Suberu Aniviye, the suspended Niger State Commandant. According to the Corps, the investigation will be guided by due process, accountability, and transparency.
Alancha also mentioned a survivor’s claim that a chemical was sprayed inside the prison, characterising it as a significant claim that has to be looked into.
He asked the NSCDC leadership to brief the President and Nigerians on the investigation’s status on a regular basis.
Alancha responded that calls for Audi’s dismissal were premature.
He stated, “You cannot put the cart before the horse, so that call is very unnecessary right now.”
He maintained that before drawing any conclusions about the NSCDC leadership, the probe should determine who is responsible or negligent.
Alancha stated, “We can’t truly know if we can call for his head or not until the results of that investigation come out.”
He urged the Corps to finish the inquiry and release the results, adding that dismissing the NSCDC chief at this point would not solve the circumstances underlying the deaths.