Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju says his focus will be ensuring accountability and protecting the interests of the families of 37 alleged illegal miners who died in Minna, Niger State, as he begins work as a member of an independent committee set up to investigate the incident.

Adeyanju announced his acceptance of the appointment on Saturday, following the decision by the Niger State Government to constitute the panel. He said he was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the process and would approach the assignment with the responsibility it requires.

The lawyer said his participation in the committee would be centred on helping to establish the facts surrounding the deaths and ensuring that the concerns of the victims are properly represented during the investigation. He also stated that he would not support any action that could undermine the credibility of the process.

Adeyanju further urged the government not to provide stipends, honorariums, or financial benefits for members of the committee, describing the assignment as a national responsibility that should be carried out in the interest of justice rather than personal gain.

He said he would personally take care of expenses related to his participation, including transportation and accommodation costs, adding that he would not accept any payment connected to his role on the panel.

According to Adeyanju, the priority of the committee must remain the search for facts and accountability for those affected by the incident. He stressed that the victims and their families deserve a transparent process that addresses the circumstances surrounding the loss of lives.

The development places renewed attention on the role of independent investigations in addressing public concerns after major incidents. The committee’s findings are expected to provide clarity on what happened in Minna and help guide further actions by relevant authorities.