By Stephen Simon
The suspended Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Aniviye, has admitted that the deaths of suspected illegal miners in custody could have been prevented.
Aniviye made the admission while appearing before a judicial inquiry investigating the deaths of detainees held in Minna, describing the incident as a costly mistake and apologising to the affected families.
The inquiry also heard testimony that the command’s legal officer had advised that detained minors should be released to their parents.
Another witness questioned why one of the deceased detainees had been held in custody, alleging that the person was not among those arrested during the mining operation.
The investigation has yet to establish the precise causes of death or determine individual criminal responsibility.
There is also a discrepancy in the reported casualty figures. Niger State authorities recorded 37 deaths, while a mortuary official told the inquiry that 33 bodies were received.
The proceedings have raised concerns about detention procedures, supervision and the treatment of suspects held by security agencies.
The inquiry is expected to examine medical evidence, reconcile the casualty figures and establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Its findings could determine whether further disciplinary or criminal proceedings will be initiated against any officials found responsible.
