Families of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Niger State have demanded justice and accountability over the deaths.
The miners were arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining activities in the Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026. They later died while being detained at an NSCDC facility in Minna.
Relatives of some of the deceased said they were denied access to their loved ones after their arrest. Some alleged that they repeatedly visited the NSCDC office to provide food or check on the detainees but were turned away, only to later learn that some had died.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation. Survivors and relatives have raised allegations of overcrowding, poor ventilation and mistreatment, while the NSCDC initially referred to a suspected disease outbreak. Authorities have not yet conclusively established the cause of death.
The families have called for a transparent investigation and accountability for anyone found responsible. Reports also indicate that some relatives rejected a ₦100,000 condolence payment from the Niger State Government, saying they wanted justice and answers rather than a token payment.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation, saying anyone found to have contributed to the deaths through abuse or negligence should face prosecution where the evidence warrants it.
The Federal Government has also inaugurated a 10-member independent investigative committee to determine the immediate and remote causes of the deaths. The committee has been given two weeks to submit its report.
As investigations continue, the grieving families are demanding that the circumstances surrounding the deaths be fully established and that appropriate action be taken based on the findings.
Leave a comment