The Federal Government has received the report of the Independent Investigative Committee set up to investigate the deaths of detainees in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, received the report on Tuesday 27, 2026 at the Ministry of Interior, Abuja, from the Committee chaired by Mr Jonathan Kure (RTD.) Deputy Director General, Department of State Services.
The Committee confirmed 33 deaths, including 14 minors, and identified 41 survivors. It attributed the deaths to severe overcrowding, poor ventilation, extreme heat and dehydration, as well as the failure of officers to respond to repeated distress calls from detainees. The report also identified unlawful detention practices, poor supervision and serious lapses in the handling of the incident.
Describing the incident as tragic and deeply regrettable, Dr. Tunji-Ojo said the Federal Government was determined to secure justice for the deceased and their families.
“No officer found culpable will be shielded, regardless of rank or position,” he said. “Those officers who concealed or attempted to destroy evidence must be suspended immediately, pending further investigation. You cannot destroy evidence”.
The Minister stated that the report would be forwarded to the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice for further judicial action, while the Ministry would carefully review it and act on its recommendations.
He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would implement far-reaching reforms within the NSCDC, including improved detention facilities, stronger oversight, better training and stricter accountability measures to prevent a recurrence.
