Inquiry Finds Deaths of 33 Detainees in Nigeria Were Entirely Preventable

An inquiry into the deaths of 33 detainees in Nigeria's Minna state has concluded that they died because of severe overcrowding, poor ventilation and a failure by officers to respond to distress calls.

Forensic and medical evidence showed the deaths, described as "entirely preventable," were caused by acute respiratory failure linked to prolonged confinement. Heat stress and dehydration made the situation worse. According to the findings, the evidence did not support early claims that a disease outbreak was responsible.

The detainees were found dead on 17 September while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, which had held them on suspicion of illegal mining. The investigation found that the mining sites in question had in fact been licensed.

The investigating committee said the raid on the miners went ahead without an approved operational order, proper planning or consultation with the Mining Marshals Unit.

It reported that 50 detainees were packed into a cell of about 20 sq m. The cell had no running water and no working toilet, and food, drinking water and airflow were all inadequate. Adults and minors were held together, and some detainees were kept beyond the lawful detention period.

Officers reportedly ignored repeated calls for help, even though a medical worker had raised concerns about the conditions. The head of the investigating team, Jonathan Kure, said detainees "repeatedly banged on cell doors and walls, shouted for assistance and pleaded for water." He added: "These distress calls were heard by officers assigned to nearby duties.. but were not acted upon."

Kure said the conditions amounted to cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment. "The tragedy demonstrates the consequences of systemic disregard for detention standards, supervisory responsibilities and the welfare of persons in custody," he said.

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said those found responsible would face the full force of the law. He noted that the detention hall had been cleaned before investigators arrived, which raised concerns about possible attempts to compromise evidence. Implicated officers will be suspended, he said, and the report will be passed to the attorney general of the federation for further legal action.

The committee also recommended compensation of 30m naira (£16,683; $22,285) for each bereaved family and 10m naira for each survivor.