Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
The Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA) has demanded an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 detainees in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, urging authorities to establish what caused the deaths and ensure accountability where wrongdoing is found.
The detainees were reportedly among persons arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining activities in the state on September 15 and 16. Their deaths were said to have been discovered on September 17.
PRAWA, in a statement signed by its Communications Manager, Nnadozie Onwurah, expressed concern over the incident and condoled with the families of the deceased.
The organisation said accounts provided by survivors had raised serious concerns about the conditions under which the detainees were held, including alleged extreme overcrowding, poor ventilation, excessive heat and inadequate access to water.
According to PRAWA, arrest or detention does not remove a person’s fundamental rights, stressing that the state assumes a heightened responsibility for the safety, dignity and wellbeing of anyone deprived of liberty.
While acknowledging the responsibility of security agencies to enforce the law, the organisation said allegations of illegal activity must not diminish the obligation of authorities to protect detainees from harm.
PRAWA welcomed steps reportedly taken by the Minister of Interior and other authorities but called for an investigation that is independent, transparent, thorough and unhindered.
It specifically demanded the preservation of evidence and detention scenes, independent forensic examinations and autopsies, proper identification of the deceased, determination of the individual causes and circumstances of death, protection of witnesses and disclosure of the investigation’s findings.
The organisation also called for an examination of possible state responsibility and systemic failures, as well as support, information and psychosocial assistance for affected families and survivors.
PRAWA further urged authorities to prosecute those responsible and provide appropriate remedies where violations, misconduct or negligence are established.
It said the incident should serve as an opportunity to examine conditions in Places of Deprivation of Liberty (PDLs) across Nigeria and implement measures to prevent similar deaths.
PRAWA referenced concerns previously raised by the UN Committee Against Torture over overcrowding, inadequate medical care, insufficient food and water, and the lack of reliable information on deaths in custody in Nigeria.
The organisation also cited the Global Torture Index 2026, which classifies Nigeria as “High Risk” for torture and ill-treatment.
PRAWA said it would continue to monitor developments and the outcome of the investigation, reaffirming its commitment to promoting a humane and secure society, access to justice, rehabilitation and institutional reforms.
