Rights Groups Demand UN Probe Into 37 Deaths in Nigeria Custody

Human rights organizations are demanding an independent international investigation into the deaths of 37 people, including minors, in the custody of Nigeria's security agency following arrests for illegal mining. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and Amnesty International have called on United Nations Special Rapporteurs and the Nigerian government to establish the truth behind the fatalities and the subsequent use of force against protesters. The detainees were arrested on September 15 and 16 during operations by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State. They were held at a facility in Minna, the state capital. The NSCDC confirmed the deaths on September 17, initially suggesting a suspected disease outbreak, but stated that the cause of death has not been established and requires medical and forensic examinations. Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago confirmed the deaths and ordered an inquiry. The Federal Government has also launched a full investigation and suspended the state NSCDC commandant, Suberu Aniviye, pending the outcome.