The 10-member panel will investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths in Niger State, including allegations of torture, inhumane treatment and denial of medical care.

The FederalGovernment has inaugurated a 10-member independent investigative committee to probe the reported deaths of 37 people in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

The committee was inaugurated by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

As part of measures to ensure an impartial investigation, the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and officers responsible for arrest, investigation, legal, station and guard duties between September 15 and 17 have been suspended pending the outcome of the probe.

The committee is chaired by retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Jonathan Kure, while former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), will serve as secretary.

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The panel has been mandated to establish the circumstances surrounding the arrests and deaths and determine the causes and timing of the fatalities.

It will also investigate allegations of torture, inhumane or degrading treatment, and possible denial or delay of medical care involving those who died in custody.

According to the Interior Minister, the committee has full authority to access relevant NSCDC facilities and official documents, conduct forensic examinations and invite members of the public to submit memoranda or information that could assist the investigation.

Tunji-Ojo said an interim report is expected within two weeks, stressing that the government wants the circumstances surrounding the deaths to be established through a transparent and independent process.

He also warned that anyone who attempts to destroy evidence, intimidate witnesses or otherwise obstruct the investigation would face appropriate consequences.

The investigation is expected to provide clarity on how the 37 people died, the circumstances of their detention and whether any officers or other individuals bear responsibility.

The government said the outcome of the investigation would guide further action based on the findings of the committee.