The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has taken a significant step in addressing the recent deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. On Sunday, September 20, 2026, the NSCDC paraded 24 of its personnel, including the suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye, at its headquarters in Abuja. These personnel are being detained in connection with the incident and are undergoing investigation.
According to the NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, the 24 personnel have been in protective custody at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja since September 17, 2026. They are facing interrogation and administrative disciplinary proceedings to make them available to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigative panels for further questioning and possible prosecution.
The NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has directed that due process, transparency, and accountability be maintained throughout the investigation. He emphasized that any personnel found culpable would face the full weight of the Corps' internal disciplinary procedures and the law. This move is part of the NSCDC's efforts to demonstrate its grief and institutional remorse over the incident.
The suspended personnel include high-ranking officers such as DCC Ajayi Philips, Head of Intelligence and Investigation; DCC John Agrahau Chagwa, Head of Operations; and DCC Obafemi Elvis. Others include ACC Stephen Tsado, Officer in Charge of Legal, and several other officers and men. The Corps attributed the inclusion of Philips and Chagwa to alleged "lack of supervision" in their respective departments.
The 37 detainees died days after they were arrested during anti-illegal mining operations carried out by NSCDC personnel in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16. Initially, the Corps attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, while stating that medical examinations would be conducted to establish the actual cause of death.
In a show of solidarity with the victims' families, the NSCDC Commandant General has ordered the NSCDC flag to be flown at half-mast across all commands and formations for three days, beginning September 20. This gesture is intended to mark the Corps' collective mourning and reaffirm its determination to address misconduct within its ranks.
The NSCDC has reiterated its commitment to transparency, protection of human rights, and professional ethics. The Corps has assured the public that it would continue to update them on the outcome of the investigation. Key points include:
Key points
- 24 NSCDC personnel have been suspended and are undergoing investigation over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners.
- The NSCDC is committed to transparency and accountability in the investigation.
- The Corps' flag has been flown at half-mast to mark its collective mourning and reaffirm its determination to address misconduct.
