Key facts
- 37 artisanal miners died in custody in Niger state last month.
- A presidential panel cited overcrowding, heat, dehydration, and neglect as causes of death.
- Families are seeking justice and the return of seized property, including gold.
- The Interior Minister stated the panel's report was sent for judicial action.
Families of 37 artisanal miners who died in custody in Nigeria are demanding swift justice and the return of seized property, stating that no amount of financial compensation can make up for their loss. A presidential panel determined that the detainees, suspected of illegal mining, died from overcrowding, extreme heat, dehydration, and neglect while held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger state last month. The government has forwarded the panel's report to the attorney-general for immediate judicial action. Survivors expressed a desire for accountability for officers involved and the return of seized items like motorcycles, phones, mining equipment, and gold to help them rebuild their lives.