The Independent Committee of Inquiry set up to investigate the reported deaths of 37 persons in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has commenced its investigation.
The committee was inaugurated by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, following concerns surrounding the reported deaths.
The Secretary of the committee, Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that members held their first meeting immediately after their inauguration.
According to him, the committee adopted a work plan outlining the steps it would take to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
As part of the investigation, the committee is expected to visit relevant locations, engage government agencies connected to the matter and speak with survivors, suspects and other individuals who may have useful information about the incident.
The committee will also obtain official documents and other relevant materials that could help establish what happened.
Medical team begins examination
Chiroma said the committee’s medical team had already commenced work to determine the cause, mechanism and manner of the reported deaths.
Also Read: ‘Real friendship always finds its way back’ – Iyabo Ojo reconciles with Toyin Lawani
The medical investigation is expected to form part of the evidence the committee will consider as it seeks to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The committee also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with the inquiry and provide information that could assist its work.
It said interested individuals and organisations would be given the opportunity to submit memoranda to the committee.
Details on the submission process, including the date and venue for physical presentations, will be announced later.
The committee assured the public that its investigation would be conducted in a thorough, fair, transparent and evidence-based manner.
It added that updates would be provided as the inquiry progresses.