BY CHARLES CHIJIOKE
Former? RMK has expressed deep concern over reported unrest in Minna, the Niger State capital, following the deaths of more than 30 youths, including minors, while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The victims were reportedly arrested on September 15 and 16, 2026, at mining sites around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna before their deaths in custody.
Afrilensnews reports that RMK described the incident as a tragic development that must not be allowed to pass without a full investigation and accountability for those responsible.
In a statement, RMK called on both the Niger State Government and the Federal Government to urgently establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, particularly given the short period between the arrests and the reported loss of lives.
“I am deeply disturbed by the reported unrest in Minna, the capital of Niger State, following the deaths of more than 30 youths, including minors while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC),” RMK said.
RMK noted that the victims were arrested during operations at mining sites in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis on September 15 and 16, stressing that the circumstances leading to their deaths after only one or two days in detention require urgent clarification.
“This tragic loss of life is yet another painful occurrence that must not go unanswered,” the statement added.
RMK demanded that the investigation should be prompt, comprehensive, independent and transparent, with particular attention to the conditions under which the detainees were held and the events that preceded their deaths.
“The Niger State Government and the Federal Government must promptly, thoroughly, independently, and transparently investigate how a detention of only one to two days could escalate into a catastrophe that claimed the lives of young people, including children,” RMK said.
The statement further called for anyone found culpable to face prosecution under the law, rather than the matter being concluded through internal disciplinary measures or administrative sanctions.
“Those found responsible must face the full weight of the law, not merely internal or administrative sanctions,” RMK stated.
RMK also expressed condolences to the bereaved families and other people affected by the incident, saying the reported deaths had caused profound concern.
“I extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and all those affected by this tragedy,” RMK said.
The reported incident comes against the backdrop of continuing concerns over illegal mining, security operations and the treatment of persons arrested during enforcement activities. The deaths of young people and minors in custody are likely to intensify demands for greater transparency over detention procedures, accountability by security agencies and an independent determination of the immediate and underlying causes of the deaths.
The development could also lead to heightened public scrutiny of the NSCDC operation in the affected mining areas, while pressure may mount on both state and federal authorities to publicly disclose the findings of any investigation and take appropriate legal action where wrongdoing is established.
