FG Constitutes Independent Probe Panel, Suspends 21 NSCDC Officers Over 37 Miners’ Deaths in Custody
Abuja/Minna, Nigeria – September 19, 2026—The Federal Government has moved swiftly to address the deaths of 37 people held in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, constituting a 10-member independent investigative committee and suspending the state commandant along with 20 other officers.
The action follows a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a comprehensive, transparent, and unhindered investigation into the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026. Minister of Interior Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the measures in a detailed press statement released on Saturday.
Background to the Tragic Deaths
The deceased were among scores of suspected illegal miners arrested during NSCDC “burst operations” on September 15 and 16 in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas near Minna, the Niger State capital.
The Corps said the operation targeted illegal mining activities and led to the recovery of various exhibits.
NSCDC Niger State Command initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak. However, other accounts, including intelligence reports and survivor testimonies, have pointed to possible overcrowding, extreme heat and poor ventilation in the detention facility.
Some witnesses have alleged physical assault, while one survivor claimed a substance was sprayed inside an overcrowded cell shortly before people began collapsing.
Autopsies and forensic examinations are ongoing to determine the precise cause.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago confirmed the death toll of 37 and placed the state NSCDC commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, on suspension.
The incident sparked public disturbances in Minna, prompting security measures, including a temporary curfew in some reports.
Independent Committee and Mandate
The newly constituted committee is chaired by Jonathan Kure, mni, a retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services. Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, serves as secretary.
Other members include retired senior police officer Hosea Hassan Karma; Professor Olayinka Buhari (histopathology expert and former CMD of University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital); representatives of the Minna Emirate Council and Niger State Government; Alhaji Liman Sulaiman of the Miners Association of Nigeria; human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju; journalist Mrs. Zainab Suleiman Okino; and public affairs analyst Dr George Agbakahi.
The panel has been given two weeks to establish the identities of the deceased, investigate the circumstances of their arrests and detention, determine the cause and circumstances of the deaths, identify any responsibility, complicity, negligence, or misconduct, and recommend appropriate actions, compensation where applicable, and preventive measures.
It may co-opt experts, access facilities and documents, visit relevant locations, and receive public memoranda.
Minister Tunji-Ojo directed full cooperation from NSCDC leadership and all relevant officers, with a strict warning that any attempt to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the investigation would be treated as a serious offence. All records and material evidence must be preserved.
Suspended Officers
In addition to the Niger State Commandant, 20 officers have been suspended pending the outcome of the probe. They include station guards, arresting officers, investigation personnel, legal officers, and guard duty staff who were on duty around the time of the incident.
The Minister described the deaths as deeply disturbing and stated that the government owes the families of the deceased and the Nigerian public a transparent account of the events.
He extended condolences to the bereaved families and appealed for calm while investigations continue.
Wider Context and Public Reaction
Illegal mining remains a persistent challenge in mineral-rich Niger State and other parts of Nigeria, often involving artisanal miners seeking livelihoods.
The mass deaths in custody have drawn strong reactions from human rights groups, activists, and the public, with calls for thorough accountability and justice.
Parallel investigations by the police, DSS, and state authorities are also underway.
As the independent committee begins its work, attention will focus on whether the findings deliver clarity, justice for the victims’ families, and concrete reforms to prevent similar tragedies in detention facilities across the country.
**This report is based on the official press statement from the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, statements by the Minister of Interior via verified X (formerly Twitter) as of September 19, 2026.**
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