Deaths in NSCDC Custody: Independent Panel Begins Investigation

The Independent Committee of Inquiry investigating the reported deaths of 37 persons in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has commenced its investigation, with a medical team already examining the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The committee, inaugurated by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, held its inaugural sitting and adopted a work plan to guide its investigation.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Secretary of the committee, Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN.

Chiroma said the committee would visit relevant locations, engage government agencies and interview survivors, suspects and other individuals with material knowledge of the incident.

It will also obtain relevant documents and other evidence required to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.

The committee’s medical team has commenced work to determine the cause, mechanism and manner of the deaths, according to the statement.

The inquiry follows the reported deaths of 37 persons in NSCDC custody, a development that has prompted calls for an independent examination of what transpired and the circumstances that led to the fatalities.

The committee said its investigation would not be limited to documentary evidence, as it plans to undertake site visits and obtain testimony from individuals directly connected to the incident.

It also appealed to members of the public to support the inquiry, announcing plans to invite memoranda from interested individuals and organisations.

Details on how to submit memoranda, including the venue and date for physical presentations, will be announced by the committee in due course.

Chiroma said the committee was committed to conducting a “thorough, fair, transparent and evidence-based inquiry” and would continue to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.

The committee’s findings are expected to help establish the facts surrounding the reported deaths and provide an evidentiary basis for determining the circumstances and responsibilities, if any, arising from the incident.