The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has suspended Commandant Suberu Aniviye over the deaths of suspected illegal miners in the Corps' custody in Niger State. Aniviye was paraded at the NSCDC headquarters in Abuja, alongside other personnel linked to the tragedy. The Corps Public Relations Officer, ACC Babawale Afolabi, disclosed this on Sunday. The suspended commandant and others are facing investigation and possible prosecution.
According to Afolabi, three more NSCDC personnel have been suspended in connection with the incident. The Commandant-General of NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has assured that due process, transparency, and accountability will be followed in the investigation. Audi vowed that every personnel found culpable would face internal disciplinary measures and the law. The investigation aims to unravel the circumstances surrounding the miners' deaths.
The NSCDC has taken 24 officers and men of the Niger State Command into protective custody at the National Headquarters in Abuja. They are undergoing interrogation and administrative disciplinary action. This move was made in conjunction with the Commandant General's Special Investigation Squad (SIS). The personnel will be made available for further investigation and possible prosecution by the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other panels.
The names of the officers held in custody have been released. They include Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, DCC Ajayi Philips, DCC John Agrahau Chagwa, and 21 others. Their ranks and serial numbers have been identified. The NSCDC has ordered that its flag be flown at half-mast across all formations for three days, starting from Sunday, 20th September 2026.
Professor Audi has given an assurance that the NSCDC will continue to keep the public informed about the outcome of the investigation. The Corps is committed to transparency and accountability in this matter. The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage across the country.
The miners' deaths have raised questions about the NSCDC's handling of suspects and the need for improved oversight. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths is ongoing. The Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other panels will conduct further investigations and possible prosecution.
The NSCDC has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights. The Corps will ensure that those responsible for the miners' deaths are brought to justice. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in law enforcement agencies.
Key points
- The NSCDC has suspended Commandant Suberu Aniviye and taken 24 personnel into custody over the deaths of suspected illegal miners.
- The investigation aims to unravel the circumstances surrounding the miners' deaths and hold those responsible accountable.
- The NSCDC has assured the public that due process, transparency, and accountability will be followed in the investigation.
