RismadarVoice Reporters
September 20, 2026
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has called for an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 people who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
In a statement signed by FIDA Nigeria Country Vice President, Eliana Martins, and National Publicity Secretary, Chineze Obianyo, the organisation said the incident raised serious questions about the government’s responsibility to protect the lives and dignity of people in detention.
FIDA expressed particular concern over reports that children were among those detained, including an allegation that a seven-year-old was among the victims.
According to the organisation, survivors reportedly described severe overcrowding, extreme heat and poor ventilation at the detention facility, with some detainees struggling to breathe and calling for help.
However, FIDA stressed that the precise circumstances and causes of the deaths remained subject to investigation.
The organisation questioned how 37 people could have died while in state custody and called for evidence-based answers and accountability.
“Custody places a heightened duty of care on the State. It does not suspend human rights,” FIDA said.
It added that being arrested did not strip anyone of the right to dignity, while children retained their rights regardless of whether they, their parents or guardians were suspected of an offence.
FIDA called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including how the detainees were arrested, the basis for their detention, the number of people held and the conditions in which they were kept.
It also demanded an assessment of whether adequate medical care and emergency assistance were available to the detainees.
The organisation urged authorities to preserve arrest and detention records, CCTV footage, medical records, duty rosters, communication logs, photographs, videos and other forensic evidence that could assist the investigation.
FIDA said anyone found to have acted unlawfully, breached a duty of care, ignored pleas for assistance, concealed information or otherwise contributed to the deaths should be held accountable in accordance with the law.
The organisation also called for the immediate identification and protection of every child affected by the incident.
It urged authorities to verify the identities and ages of all children who were arrested or detained and ensure that surviving children receive medical attention, psychosocial support, legal assistance and appropriate protection.
FIDA said children who survived the incident should not be returned to unsuitable detention facilities.
The organisation welcomed the Federal Government’s reported decision to establish an independent committee to investigate the deaths and suspend officers linked to the incident.
However, it stressed that the inquiry must be independent, transparent and evidence-driven, with clear consequences where wrongdoing is established.
FIDA also called for a broader review of detention conditions across security agencies, particularly issues relating to overcrowding, ventilation, access to water and healthcare, emergency response, record-keeping and safeguards for children and other vulnerable detainees.
