Deaths in detention cells in Nigeria were entirely preventable, inquiry finds

The BBC’s Madina Maishanu shows the conditions inside the cell where so many died

An inquiry into the deaths of 33 detainees in Nigeria’s Minna state has found they died as a result of severe overcrowding, poor ventilation and failure by officers to respond to distress calls.

Forensic and medical evidence showed the “entirely preventable” deaths had resulted from acute respiratory failure linked to prolonged confinement, aggravated by heat stress and dehydration.

The evidence did not support initial claims of a disease outbreak.

The detainees were found dead on 17 September while being held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps on suspicion of illegal mining. The investigation found that the mining sites had been licensed.

‘I have never felt heat like that’ – a survivor on watching 33 cellmates die in Nigeria

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said those found responsible for the deaths would face the full force of the law.

He added that the detention hall had been cleaned before investigators arrived, raising concerns about possible attempts to compromise evidence.

Implicated officers will face suspension and the report would be forwarded to the attorney general of the federation for further legal action, Tunji-Ojo said.

Image source, EPA

Family members reclaimed the bodies of their relatives from Minna’s General Hospital last month

The investigating committee found that the raid on the miners had been conducted without an approved operational order, proper planning or consultation with the Mining Marshals Unit.

It said that 50 detainees had been held in a cell measuring about 20 sq m, with no running water or functioning toilet, and inadequate food, drinking water and airflow.

Adults and minors were detained together, and some detainees were held beyond lawful detention periods.

Officers reportedly ignored repeated calls for help, despite a medical worker having raised concerns about the conditions.

“Detainees repeatedly banged on cell doors and walls, shouted for assistance and pleaded for water,” said the head of the investigating team, Jonathan Kure.

“These distress calls were heard by officers assigned to nearby duties… but were not acted upon.”

Kure said the detention 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 added.

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

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