Niger miners’ deaths: Adeyanju accepts committee role

Lawyer and human rights advocate Deji Adeyanju has agreed to serve on a Federal Government committee probing the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State, but stated he would decline any compensation. In a statement on his X handle, Adeyanju accepted the responsibility to ensure the victims' interests were represented and the truth revealed.

The 10-member independent committee was formed to investigate the deaths of 37 detainees allegedly arrested by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Adeyanju urged against any monetary provision for committee members, insisting it was a national duty. He vowed not to accept any payment or participate in actions that might compromise the investigation.

The committee, chaired by retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services Jonathan Kure, will determine the identities of the deceased, the circumstances of their arrest and detention, and the cause of their deaths. It will also assess responsibility and recommend appropriate actions, including potential compensation.

The committee has two weeks to complete its work and submit its report to Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.