Names of 33 detainees who died in NSCDC custody emerge, children among victims

An independent investigation committee has identified 33 detainees who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, including children aged 11 and 12.

According to the Federal Ministry of Information, as reported by Sahara Reporters, the committee confirmed 33 deaths, including 14 minors, following an investigation into the September 16–17, 2026 tragedy. Federal Ministry of Info

The deceased master register identifies Uzaifa Aliyu, 11, as the youngest victim, alongside Abdulsalam Samaila and Mohammad Sani Nasir, both aged 12.

Other identified victims include Emmanuel Emeka, 25; Kabiru Suleiman, 14–16; Idris Haruna, 30; Mu’awiya Abdulkareem, 23; Sani Yakubu, 25; Safiyanu Abdullahi, 24; Safiyanu Abubakar, 16; Ibrahim Sani, 17; Fahad Sa’adu, 16; Ahmad Aliyu, 19; and Safiyu Abdullahi Lado, 18.

The investigation attributed the deaths to acute respiratory failure caused by environmental asphyxia, aggravated by overcrowding, extreme heat, poor ventilation and dehydration.

However, environmental asphyxia was provisionally recorded for three victims, while individual causes of death remained undetermined for 30 others because autopsies were not conducted.

The report confirmed that 30 victims had been buried, while three remained in the morgue.

The committee recommended disciplinary action, prosecution where appropriate, compensation for affected families and reforms to detention facilities.

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo promised accountability, assuring Nigerians that officers found responsible would face appropriate sanctions.