An independent investigation has revealed that about 50 male detainees, including 17 children, were held in a 12-square-metre cell at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) command in Minna, Niger State, before 33 detainees died in custody in September.

The investigation report described the cell as severely overcrowded, poorly ventilated and lacking basic facilities, including running water and a functional toilet.

The deaths occurred between the evening of September 16 and the morning of September 17, 2026. Medical evidence reportedly pointed to acute respiratory failure consistent with environmental asphyxia.

“The 12m² male cell was also legally and physically unsuitable for the number held in it,” the committee stated.

Command Officials Confirmed Overcrowding

According to the report, Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye Siyaka, admitted that about 50 detainees had been held in the cell.

Ndamaka Isah Usman, the officer in charge of cell guards, also reportedly confirmed that he detained about 50 males, including 17 children, at the facility.

The committee identified several deficiencies in the cell, including a metal door, poor ventilation, unreliable lighting, no running water and a non-functional toilet.

It said the conditions became more dangerous because officers failed to reduce the number of detainees or arrange emergency assistance when some began experiencing distress.

Fourteen Children Among the Dead

The investigation found that 14 of the 33 detainees who died were minors, while nine of the 41 survivors were also under the age of 18.

The report further said adults and children were detained together, contrary to child-protection requirements.

It also identified failures in the planning and execution of the operation that led to the arrests. According to the committee, raids targeting suspected illegal mining activities on September 15 and 16 were conducted without an approved operational order, adequate planning or consultation with relevant mining authorities.

Officers Allegedly Ignored Calls for Help

The committee said officers responsible for the cell failed to respond adequately as detainees struggled in the overcrowded facility.

“The Committee finds that officers responsible for the cells failed to reduce the overcrowding, ignored prolonged cries and banging of the cell door and wall and did not provide emergency help,” the report stated.

Severe overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, heat exposure and dehydration were identified as the principal contributing factors to the deaths.

The committee described the deaths as entirely preventable.