Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has vowed to stand firmly for the victims as he joins the Federal Government’s independent committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State.
Adeyanju said his decision to serve on the panel was driven by the need to ensure that the interests of the deceased are properly represented and that the circumstances surrounding their deaths are thoroughly established.
“I am there to represent the victims, and I will make sure there is no cover-up,” Adeyanju said, warning that he would expose any attempt to suppress wrongdoing uncovered during the investigation.
The lawyer made the remarks after accepting his appointment to the 10-member committee constituted by the Federal Government to investigate the deaths of the detainees, who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
Adeyanju said he regarded his participation as a national responsibility rather than an opportunity for personal gain. He also urged the government not to provide members of the committee with stipends or honoraria, saying he would personally bear his accommodation, transportation and other expenses associated with the assignment.
According to him, the investigation must be allowed to establish the truth without interference, compromise or pressure from any quarter.
“If there is any attempt to shield those responsible or suppress the truth, I will expose it,” he stated.
The Federal Government said the committee is expected to establish the identities of the deceased, examine the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, determine the cause of death and establish whether there was any responsibility, negligence or misconduct. It is also empowered to recommend appropriate action, including compensation where applicable.
The committee is chaired by retired DSS Deputy Director-General Jonathan Kure, while Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, a former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, serves as secretary. Other members include retired AIG Hosea Hassan Karma, Professor Olayinka Buhari, representatives of the Minna Emirate Council and Niger State Government, the Miners Association of Nigeria, journalist Zainab Suleiman Okino and public affairs analyst Dr George Agbakahi.
The Federal Government has also suspended 20 NSCDC officers in connection with the incident, while directing the Corps and other relevant authorities to cooperate fully with the investigation and preserve all records and evidence relating to the deaths.
The committee has two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its report to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
For Adeyanju, the central issue is accountability. He said the victims deserve to have their circumstances fully investigated and that the panel must be allowed to follow the evidence wherever it leads.
The investigation is expected to provide answers to the questions surrounding the deaths and determine whether any individuals or institutions bear responsibility.
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