The Federal Government has set up a 10-man panel to probe the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 37 miners in Niger state. The panel was inaugurated by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on September 22, 2026, at the Ministry of Interior in Abuja. The government also warned against any attempt to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses, or obstruct the investigation, saying such attempts would be treated as a serious offence.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated that President Bola Tinubu believes that no life should be lost in the custody of the State. He said the administration was elected on the promise that every Nigerian life matters, and that security must be provided with humanity, professionalism, and respect for human rights. The Minister extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and the government of Niger State.
The inauguration was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof Ahmed Audi, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Kemi Nanna Nandap, and the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche. The Minister announced that two steps were immediately taken by the government: the suspension of the Commandant of NSCDC in Minna, Niger state, and the arrest of all those connected with the incident.
The panel's mandate includes establishing the identities of the deceased, investigating and documenting the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, and determining the cause and manner of death. The panel is also tasked with recommending appropriate disciplinary action, compensation where applicable, and measures to prevent a recurrence. The members of the panel were carefully selected to guarantee independence, credibility, and professionalism.
The Chairman of the Panel, Mr Jonathan Kure, stated that the panel will ensure justice by going to the field with open minds. He assured Nigerians that the panel will not be swayed by sentiments or media hype and will come back with their report and integrity intact. The panel has two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its report to the Minister.
The government has directed the authorities of the NSCDC and its leadership to cooperate fully with the panel. All records and material evidence connected to the incident must be preserved and made available. The Minister assured Nigerians that no officer, no matter how highly placed, will be shielded if found culpable.
The incident occurred on September 17, 2026, when 37 persons held by the NSCDC in Niger State Command on suspicion of illegal mining died in custody. The government has promised to give the truth and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The panel's report is expected to provide answers to the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Key points
- The Federal Government has inaugurated a 10-man panel to investigate the deaths of 37 miners in Niger state during enforcement operations by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
- The panel's mandate includes establishing the identities of the deceased, investigating and documenting the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, and determining the cause and manner of death.
- The government has warned against any attempt to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses, or obstruct the investigation, saying such attempts would be treated as a serious offence.
