Socio Economic Research and Development Centre SERDEC

19/09/2026

PRESS STATEMENT

37 Miners Dead in Custody: SERDEC Demands Transparent Investigation and Accountability

The Socio-Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC) is deeply concerned by the reported deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding their arrest or the allegations against them, persons held in government custody remain entitled to the protection of their lives, dignity and fundamental human rights. Death in custody involving such a large number of detainees therefore requires a prompt, independent and transparent investigation.

SERDEC acknowledges that the exact cause of the deaths has not yet been conclusively established. Reports have raised different possibilities, including disease, overcrowding, suffocation and exposure to hazardous substances. These claims must be subjected to credible forensic and medical investigation rather than speculation.

We therefore call on the relevant authorities to:

1. Conduct an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances leading to the deaths.

2. Publish the findings of the autopsies and other relevant forensic examinations, subject to applicable legal and privacy considerations.

3. Establish the identities of all those who died and ensure that their families are promptly informed and supported.

4. Investigate the conditions under which the detainees were held, including cell capacity, ventilation, access to medical care, food, water and emergency response.

5. Ensure accountability where negligence, abuse, overcrowding or any other unlawful conduct is established, irrespective of the rank or position of those responsible.

6. Strengthen custodial safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future.

SERDEC also calls for restraint and respect for due process as investigations continue. The public deserves answers, while the families of the deceased deserve truth, dignity and justice.

The deaths of 37 people in custody cannot be treated as an ordinary administrative incident. A credible investigation must establish not only how they died, but whether anything could and should have been done to prevent their deaths.

SERDEC stands with the families of the deceased and urges all relevant institutions to ensure that this matter receives the seriousness, transparency and accountability it deserves.

Signed:
Abdulkareem Tijani
Executive Director
Socio-Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC)

15/09/2026

Nigeria’s Democratic Journey So Far: Progress, Challenges and the Road Ahead

As the world marks the International Day of Democracy on 15 September, it is an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the progress recorded, the challenges that remain, and the responsibility of all stakeholders to strengthen the democracy we have built.

Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999 marked a significant turning point in the country’s history. Since then, the nation has experienced successive civilian administrations and conducted general elections in 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023. This continuity represents an important achievement in a country with a history of military interventions in governance.

Over the years, Nigeria’s democratic process has also evolved. Electoral reforms and the introduction of technologies such as the Smart Card Reader, the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) have sought to improve the integrity and transparency of elections.

However, democracy cannot be measured by elections alone.

The true strength of democracy lies in the ability of citizens to participate meaningfully in governance, express their views freely, demand accountability and have their voices reflected in decisions that affect their lives. It requires institutions that are transparent and responsive, respect for the rule of law, protection of fundamental rights, and opportunities for citizens, including women, young people, persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups, to participate in public affairs.

Nigeria’s democratic journey therefore remains a work in progress. Concerns around electoral malpractice, vote buying, political exclusion, limited citizen participation, misinformation, weak accountability and declining public trust continue to challenge democratic consolidation. These challenges remind us that protecting democracy is a shared responsibility.

As Nigeria looks towards the 2027 general elections, preparations are already underway, with INEC having released the timetable and schedule of activities for the elections. This presents another opportunity for citizens, political parties, government institutions, civil society organisations, the media and other stakeholders to work together towards a more credible, peaceful, inclusive and participatory democratic process.

At SERDEC, we believe that democracy must translate into improved governance and better outcomes for citizens. Citizens should not only have the opportunity to vote; they should also have the opportunity to participate in policy processes, access public information, demand accountability and contribute to decisions that shape their communities.

The journey so far shows that Nigeria’s democracy has made important strides, but there is still much work to be done. Democracy must be continuously strengthened through active citizenship, accountable leadership, transparent institutions and meaningful engagement between government and citizens.

On this International Day of Democracy, let us remember that democracy belongs to everyone. Its future depends not only on those who hold public office, but also on citizens who participate, ask questions, defend democratic values and hold institutions accountable.

Every voice matters. Every citizen has a role. And every democratic gain is worth protecting.

SERDEC calls on all Nigerians to remain committed to building a more inclusive, transparent, accountable and participatory democracy, one that truly delivers for the people.

10/09/2026

SERDEC Participates in West Africa Drug Policy Network - WADPN Nigeria 3rd Quarterly Members Training Workshop
The Socio-Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC) joined other civil society organizations today in Abuja for the 2026 3rd Quarterly WADPN-Nigeria Members Hybrid Training Workshop.

The training, organized by WADPN-Nigeria with support from Youthrise Nigeria under the Sustainability of Harm Reduction Program in Nigeria (SHaRP) Project, focused on “Harm Reduction Advocacy for Drug Law and Policy Reform in Nigeria.”

The workshop provided a valuable platform for participants to deepen their understanding of harm reduction, share experiences, strengthen advocacy skills and explore ways civil society organizations can contribute to meaningful drug law and policy reform in Nigeria.

SERDEC’s participation reflects its continued engagement with civil society networks and its commitment to learning, collaboration and advocacy on issues that contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.

07/09/2026

New Week. Make Room for Possibility

02/09/2026

WHEN HEALTHCARE BECOMES ABUSE: Understanding Obstetric Violence in Nigeria

Obstetric violence refers to the mistreatment, disrespect, or abuse women may experience during pregnancy, childbirth, or after delivery. It can include shouting, humiliation, neglect, discrimination, denial of privacy, physical abuse, or performing medical procedures without proper consent. Every woman deserves to feel safe, respected, and heard when seeking maternal healthcare.

Gender inequality, poor working conditions, inadequate resources, and weak accountability can contribute to the mistreatment of women in healthcare facilities. Such experiences can cause emotional and physical trauma, reduce trust in healthcare providers, and discourage women from seeking skilled maternity care when they need it most.

Healthcare should protect dignity, not take it away. Health facilities must promote respectful and woman-centred care, strengthen accountability, and ensure that women understand and can exercise their rights. By empowering women and supporting healthcare workers, we can build a system where every woman receives care with dignity, compassion, respect, and informed consent.

31/08/2026

31/08/2026

PRESS STATEMENT

SERDEC Granted United Nations ECOSOC Special Consultative Status
Abuja, Nigeria | 24 August 2026

The Socio Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC) is pleased to announce that it has been granted Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), marking a significant milestone in the organization’s commitment to advancing inclusive governance, accountability, human rights, sustainable development and citizen participation.
The decision was adopted at the United Nations Economic and Social Council meeting on 21 July 2026, following the recommendation of the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations. In a formal communication to the organization, the United Nations NGO Branch conveyed its congratulations to SERDEC on the granting of the status.

Special Consultative Status provides SERDEC with an enhanced opportunity to contribute its expertise to relevant United Nations processes. Under this status, SERDEC is entitled to engage with ECOSOC and its subsidiary bodies, the Human Rights Council and, under specific conditions, certain meetings of the General Assembly and other intergovernmental bodies, as well as the United Nations Secretariat. The status also enables SERDEC to designate representatives to participate in relevant United Nations sessions, events, conferences and activities at UN Headquarters in New York and the United Nations Offices in Geneva and Vienna.

For SERDEC, this recognition represents not only an achievement but also a greater responsibility to contribute meaningfully to global policy conversations and bring perspectives and evidence from Nigeria and Africa to international platforms. As an organization working to promote socio-economic development, accountable governance, citizen participation and respect for human rights, SERDEC sees this new status as an opportunity to strengthen its engagement with international institutions while continuing to work closely with communities, civil society organisations, policymakers and other state and non-state actors.

The Executive Director of SERDEC, Comrade Abdulkareem Tijani, describes the recognition as a testament to the dedication of SERDEC’s team, partners and stakeholders who continue to support our work. He noted that “This recognition is both an honour and a responsibility. Special Consultative Status with ECOSOC gives SERDEC a stronger platform to contribute our voice to global discussion, share learning and experience for collective action while amplifying the voices of citizens and communities, promote accountable institutions, and contribute to solutions that advance sustainable and inclusive development.”

SERDEC expresses its appreciation to the United Nations Economic and Social Council, the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations, its partners, supporters and all stakeholders who have contributed to the organisation’s growth and impact over the years. This milestone strengthens SERDEC’s resolve to continue advancing participatory governance, accountability, human rights and sustainable socio-economic development in Nigeria and beyond.

Signed:
Abdulkareem Tijani
Executive Director
Socio Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC)

For Media Enquiries:
Socio Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC)
Abuja, Nigeria
Email: [email protected] [email protected] Phone No. 08182482222, 08059062562. Web: www.serdec.rg

27/08/2026

Campaign season is here, but campaign promises alone should not determine your vote.

Look beyond the speeches. Examine the candidate’s track record, competence, capacity and character before making your choice.

24/08/2026

A new week is a reminder that meaningful results are often built quietly, one effort at a time.

Keep showing up. Keep contributing. Keep building something that will matter beyond today.

Wishing you a productive and impactful week ahead.

20/08/2026

Beyond the Building: What Makes a Primary Health Centre Truly Functional?

A Primary Health Centre (PHC) is often the first place people turn to for healthcare in their communities. However, having a building alone does not mean healthcare is available. A truly functional PHC needs qualified and motivated health workers, essential medicines, working equipment, clean water, electricity, and a safe environment.

Quality and accessible services are equally important. A functional PHC should provide essential services such as maternal and child healthcare, immunisation, health education, disease prevention, and basic emergency care. It should also have a reliable referral system for patients who need higher-level treatment.

Communities also have a role to play. Citizens should be able to ask whether their local PHC has the staff, medicines, equipment, and resources needed to serve them. Government, health workers, communities, and civil society must work together to improve funding, monitoring, accountability, and service delivery. A functional PHC is more than a building, it is a lifeline for the community.