33 detainees in Nonsense died of suffocation, report reveals 

FG RECEIVES REPORT ON DEATHS OF 33 DETAINEES IN NSCDC CUSTODY, ORDERS REFORMS

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.

The Committee recommended the dismissal and prosecution of officers found responsible, where appropriate. It also recommended compensation of ₦1.4bn to the families of the victims, educational support for dependents of the deceased, medical and psychological support for survivors and affected families, and a formal government apology. The Federal Government will study these recommendations and announce its decisions.

The Minister said: “Mr. President has always said that every life is important, and no Nigerian life is more important than another. This is a President who has built his reputation on accountability. Renewed Hope is about accountability. Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to have been done. That is what this government stands for.”

Dr. Tunji-Ojo thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his leadership and his commitment to justice. He also commended the Committee members for their dedication and a job well done, and assured the families of the deceased that the Government would not abandon them.

E-Signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head of Press and Public Relations
Ministry of Interior