The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice-presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of more than 30 youths, including minors, while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
Kwankwaso, in a statement posted on his Facebook page, said he is “deeply disturbed” by the reported unrest in Minna following the deaths.
According to him, the victims were arrested on September 15 and 16, 2026, at mining sites in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna.
He described the deaths as a tragic loss of life that “must not go unanswered”, urging both the Niger State and Federal governments to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Kwankwaso questioned how the detention of the youths for only one or two days could have resulted in the deaths of so many people, including children.
“The Niger State Government and the Federal government must promptly, thoroughly, independently, and transparently investigate how a detention of only one to two days could escalate into a catastrophe that claimed the lives of young people, including children,” he said.
The NDC vice-presidential candidate also called for legal action against anyone found responsible for the deaths.
He said those found culpable should face the full weight of the law rather than merely being subjected to internal disciplinary or administrative sanctions.
Kwankwaso extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and others affected by the tragedy.
“I extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and all those affected by this tragedy,” he said.