The Nigeria Police Force says it will work with the Niger State Government and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, to investigate the deaths of 37 citizens in the state.
The Inspector-General of the Nigeria Police Force IGP Olatunji Disu gave the assurance while visiting the state to commiserate with the government and people over the tragic incident and inspect the scenes where it occurred.
The IGP described the deaths as tragic and said the circumstances surrounding the incident must be thoroughly investigated while noting that deaths occurring while in custody are a serious matter that falls within the purview of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly given the number of victims involved.
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He said the police would cooperate with a committee already established by the state government to assist in the investigation.
The IGP also appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring them that the authorities would not compromise their efforts to establish the cause of the deaths and ensure that the appropriate action is taken.
Meanwhile, the police have warned residents against taking the law into their own hands, adding that security personnel would intensify patrols across towns in the state to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
He offered condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the repose of their souls.
