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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
De Norsemen Kclub International (DNKI) has backed the Federal Government’s probe into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody in Niger State.
The group described the 10-member independent committee as a major step towards uncovering the circumstances surrounding the deaths and restoring public confidence.
The 37 detainees died on September 17, 2026, after their arrest over suspected illegal mining activities.
In a statement by its International President, Chief Oliver Patrick Ityohegh, DNKI commended the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for constituting the committee on the directive of President Bola Tinubu.
The committee is to establish the identities of the deceased, investigate their arrest and detention, determine the cause and manner of their deaths and ascertain whether negligence, misconduct or other wrongdoing occurred.It has two weeks to submit its report.
DNKI also welcomed the suspension of officers linked to the incident pending the outcome of the probe.
“We commend the Federal Government for responding to this tragic incident by establishing an independent investigative committee.
“This is an important step towards determining what happened and ensuring that the families of the deceased and the Nigerian public receive a credible account,” the group said.
DNKI urged the committee to probe the victims’ detention conditions, events leading to their deaths and any actions or omissions that may have contributed to the tragedy.
It also called for the publication of the committee’s findings and recommendations, subject to lawful considerations.
The group urged the Niger State Government to ensure that its own inquiry complements the federal probe.
It further called for a review of detention procedures, custodial conditions, arrest protocols, emergency response and oversight mechanisms within security agencies to prevent a recurrence.
DNKI said anyone found culpable, after due investigation and due process, should face appropriate legal or disciplinary action.
The organisation appealed to Nigerians to remain calm and urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the committee and preserve relevant evidence.
It commiserated with the families and communities of the deceased and the government and people of Niger State.
