The Federal Government has inaugurated a 10-member independent investigative committee to probe the reported deaths of 37 people while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The committee was inaugurated by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in Abuja on Tuesday following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The investigation is expected to establish what happened to the deceased and determine whether any wrongdoing, negligence or breach of duty occurred during their arrest and detention.
Committee Given Two-Week Deadline
Speaking during the inauguration, Tunji-Ojo charged the committee to carry out its assignment independently and without interference.
He said the government’s primary responsibility was to establish the truth and ensure that justice was served to the deceased and their families.
The committee, chaired by retired Mr Jonathan Kure, has been directed to begin work immediately and submit its report within two weeks.
Its terms of reference include establishing the identities of the 37 deceased persons and investigating the circumstances surrounding their arrests and detention.
The committee is also expected to determine the cause and manner of death through appropriate medical and forensic examinations.
FG Orders Preservation of Evidence
The investigative panel will further examine whether negligence, misconduct, complicity or other breaches of official duty contributed to the deaths.
Where wrongdoing is established, the committee is expected to recommend appropriate disciplinary measures and compensation where applicable.
It will also recommend measures that could prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Tunji-Ojo directed the NSCDC leadership and all relevant officers to provide full cooperation to the investigation.
He also ordered that all records, documents and other evidence connected to the incident be preserved.
The minister warned that attempts to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the committee’s work would be treated as a serious offence.
‘No Officer Will Be Shielded’
Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that the investigation would not be used to protect officials who may be found responsible.
“We owe you the truth. This committee will give you the truth. No officer, no matter how highly placed, will be shielded if found culpable,” the minister said.
The investigation is expected to provide an official account of the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and determine whether any individuals or institutions should be held accountable.
The committee’s report, which is due within two weeks, is expected to guide the government on further disciplinary, legal and administrative action.
