Survivors of the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State have recounted their ordeal in custody, with one alleging that an unidentified substance was sprayed inside an overcrowded cell shortly before several detainees collapsed.
According to Channels Television, the survivor said 17 people were initially locked inside a small room before more detainees were brought in. The detainees reportedly complained about the cramped conditions and intense heat.
He alleged that as the cell was about to be locked, an unidentified substance that looked like perfume was sprayed inside.
The survivor said the smell became disturbing and people began falling as the room grew increasingly hot. He added that the detainees pleaded for water but were allegedly told that nobody would open the door.
Another survivor, who requested anonymity, said he survived because he was close to the entrance of the cell, where he could breathe more easily.
“We were screaming for help,” he said, adding that guards were told people were dying but allegedly did not believe the reports.
Tinubu orders investigation
The deaths occurred after the suspected miners were detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps following enforcement operations around Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation, saying no Nigerian should die in government custody because of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also ordered an investigation and suspended Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the Niger State commander of the NSCDC, pending the outcome of the probe.
An intelligence report seen by AFP reportedly indicated that overcrowding and poor ventilation may have contributed to the deaths. The NSCDC had initially attributed the deaths to disease.
The incident triggered protests and unrest in Minna, prompting Niger State Governor Umaru Bago to impose a night-time curfew in the city.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths, including the survivor’s allegation about the substance sprayed inside the cell, remain subject to investigation.
