MINNA, NIGERIA — Fresh details have emerged surrounding the deaths of detained miners in Niger State. An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has admitted that he heard the detainees screaming before they died but failed to open their cell.
The officer, Assistant Superintendent of Corps Usman Isah Ndamaka, made the admission while appearing before a judicial commission of inquiry. The commission was established by the Niger State Government to investigate the incident.
The Confession
The panel is headed by Justice Mohammed Mohammed. Ndamaka was responsible for managing the detention facility at the NSCDC Niger State Command.
He broke down in tears during his testimony. He expressed regret over the deaths and apologised to the affected families and residents of the state.
His testimony has raised further questions about the conditions under which the miners were detained. It also raised questions about the response of officers on duty and whether timely intervention could have prevented the tragedy.
Reason for Not Opening the Cell
Explaining why he did not open the cell, Ndamaka said he was afraid the detainees would overpower him. He acknowledged hearing their cries. But he maintained that the shortage of personnel at the facility that evening made it difficult for him to intervene safely.
“I am very sorry for the deaths of the miners in my custody. It is unfortunate that this happened under my watch. I am pained, and it is very unfortunate that this happened. I am very sorry. I admit my mistake,” he said.
Conditions Inside the Cell
The officer also described the conditions inside the detention facility. He admitted that the cell was overcrowded. He said the heat had become unbearable for those held there.
“The fear of being overpowered by the detainees prevented me from opening the cell door, despite hearing them screaming and shouting because of overcrowding and the heat inside,” he said.
Ndamaka’s account suggests that overcrowding and inadequate staffing were among the difficulties facing the detention facility. However, his admission that he heard the detainees calling for help without opening the cell is likely to remain a major issue for the commission.
Failed Transfer
The officer further explained that the miners were brought to the facility late in the evening during a heavy downpour. He said accommodating the new arrivals became difficult because male and female suspects had to be separated.
He said attempts to transfer some of the detainees to the old NSCDC command headquarters did not succeed. The proposed transfer was rejected by the Mining Marshal.
Federal Government’s Response
The incident has drawn the attention of the Federal Government. President Bola Tinubu directed a comprehensive investigation.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and 20 other officers. This is pending the outcome of the probe.
A separate 10-member federal committee was constituted to investigate the circumstances of the deaths. It will determine possible negligence or misconduct.
What This Means
The tragedy involved 37 detainees. They died after being arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Minna.
The incident highlights the need for reforms in the detention system. It also raises questions about the conduct of security agencies.
What Happens Next
The commission will continue its investigation. It is expected to establish what happened inside the facility.
For now, the families of the victims are demanding justice. The government has assured them that those responsible will be held accountable.
