A security expert, author and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has called for accountability and stronger oversight of detention facilities following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

Mumuni, while expressing condolences to the families of the deceased, urged Nigerians to allow the ongoing investigation into the incident to run its course, saying the circumstances surrounding the deaths must be established through facts and evidence.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, on Sunday, Mumuni described the deaths in government custody as tragic and deeply concerning.

He lauded the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the government’s response to the incident, particularly the constitution of an independent 10-member committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The Niger State NSCDC Commandant and 20 other officers connected with the incident have also been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

Mumuni said the steps taken by the Federal Government demonstrated a commitment to establishing the truth and ensuring accountability through a fair process.

He said, “As a citizen of the country and renowned author and security luminary, I acknowledge the tragic loss of 37 lives in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.

“This incident weighs heavily on my heart, and I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the Niger State Government and all citizens affected by this devastating occurrence.”

The security expert appealed to Nigerians to exercise restraint and patience while the investigation continues, warning against premature conclusions and inflammatory statements.

He said justice would be better served by allowing investigators to establish the facts before conclusions were reached.

“I will like to use this medium to appeal to all Nigerians to exercise restraint and patience during this investigation,” he said.

“Justice is best served through systematic investigation, not hasty judgment. Let us allow the process to work and reserve our conclusions until facts are established.”

Mumuni urged the investigative committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the arrests and detention of the deceased, the condition of the detention facility, the number of detainees, the medical attention available to them and the events leading to their deaths.

He also called for the investigation to determine whether any individual or institution failed in its statutory responsibilities, stressing that anyone found culpable should face the appropriate consequences under the law.

Mumuni said the findings of the investigation should be made public and that appropriate action should follow from its recommendations.

He also acknowledged the government’s responsibility to tackle illegal mining, given its implications for national security, the environment and the wellbeing of communities.

However, he stressed that enforcement agencies must operate within the law while carrying out their duties.

“The fight against illegal mining is necessary, particularly because of its implications for national security, the environment and the safety of communities.

“However, the enforcement of our laws must itself remain within the law.

“When citizens are taken into government custody, the state assumes a responsibility for their safety and welfare. Where there are allegations of negligence, abuse or failure of duty, these must be thoroughly investigated and the truth established,” he said.

The APC chieftain also appealed to residents, families of the deceased and other stakeholders to remain calm and reject actions that could lead to further loss of lives or destruction of property.

He said the tragedy should instead provide an opportunity to strengthen detention standards, security sector oversight and accountability mechanisms.

Mumuni added that security and justice must remain complementary objectives, with enforcement agencies empowered to confront criminality while ensuring that people in their custody are treated with dignity and their fundamental rights protected.

Quoting the Qur’an, Surah Al Imran 3:185, Mumuni reminded Nigerians of the transient nature of life and the ultimate accountability before Allah.

He prayed that Allah would grant the deceased eternal peace, strengthen their families and guide the country towards justice tempered with mercy.