The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 persons who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

The deceased were reportedly arrested on suspicion of illegal mining and were being held by the NSCDC before the tragic incident in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026.

While earlier reports indicated that 33 bodies were deposited at the General Hospital, Minna mortuary, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, subsequently confirmed that 37 persons died.

In a statement signed by the 33rd President, Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, the NBA expressed profound sadness over the incident, describing the deaths as a matter of grave national concern.

The association extended condolences to the families of the victims, as well as the government and people of Niger State, stressing that the deceased deserved the protection of the law, preservation of life and respect for human dignity while in government custody.

“Thirty-seven lives have been lost. Thirty-seven families are grieving,” the NBA said, noting that the circumstances surrounding the arrest of the victims did not diminish their constitutional rights while in custody.

The association said it deliberately avoided making an immediate conclusion on the cause of death, insisting that the facts must first be established through credible investigation.

However, it maintained that the incident demanded urgent answers, particularly on the conditions under which the detainees were held, the capacity of the detention facility, availability of medical care, and the response of officials when the detainees reportedly showed signs of distress.

The NBA acknowledged the initial steps taken by relevant authorities, including the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, the summoning of senior officers, and the constitution of investigative panels by the NSCDC and Niger State Government.

It also commended the intervention of the Nigeria Police Force, the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the Minister of Interior and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for a full and transparent investigation.

The association, however, cautioned that the credibility of the response would not be judged by the speed of announcements alone, but by the independence of the investigations, public disclosure of findings and accountability for any official found culpable.

The NBA said credible allegations relating to overcrowding, poor ventilation, inadequate medical attention and the treatment of detainees must be carefully investigated, urging authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible through negligence, abuse or dereliction of duty is brought to justice.