67 Miners Crowded Into NSCDC Cell Before 37 Died – Niger Gov

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has disclosed that 67 artisanal and suspected illegal miners were detained in a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps cell before 37 of them died in custody.

The miners were arrested during NSCDC operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State between September 15 and 16, 2026.

Bago said overcrowding and possible exposure to hazardous substances from mining activities were among the factors being considered as possible causes of the deaths. However, the exact cause has not been established, as medical, forensic and biological examinations are ongoing.

The governor said autopsies and laboratory tests would be necessary to determine what led to the deaths. He also stressed the need for responsible mining practices and the use of protective equipment.

The Federal Government has suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and ordered a full investigation into the incident.