The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has taken 24 personnel of its Niger State Command into custody in connection with the death of 33 alleged illegal miners in custody. This move comes as investigations into the incident, which occurred on September 17 in Niger State, continue. The NSCDC has also ordered its flag to be flown at half-mast nationwide for three days, starting from Sunday, September 20, 2026.
According to NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, expressed deep disturbance over the incident. He emphasized that the NSCDC would not tolerate unprofessional conduct or actions that violate citizens' fundamental rights. The personnel detained were taken into protective custody at the National Headquarters in Abuja following an operation involving the Commandant-General's Special Investigation Squad.
The detained personnel are undergoing interrogation and administrative disciplinary procedures. They will also be made available to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other panels investigating the deaths. Initially, 21 personnel were identified, but three additional personnel have been suspended, bringing the total number of affected officers to 24. The NSCDC identified the detained personnel, including Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye, the suspended Niger State Commandant, and other officers.
The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to transparency, human rights, professional ethics, and accountability. The Corps appealed for patience while the investigations proceed, adding that further updates would be made public as developments unfold. The decision to fly the NSCDC flag at half-mast reflects the Corps' mourning over the deaths and its commitment to addressing misconduct within its ranks.
Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi assured the public that no stone would be left unturned in this matter. He stated that due process would be strictly followed, and every single personnel found culpable would face the full weight of internal disciplinary measures and the law. The NSCDC is taking steps to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The incident has raised concerns about the treatment of detainees and the conduct of NSCDC personnel. The Corps' swift action in detaining personnel and initiating investigations demonstrates its commitment to addressing the issue. The public is awaiting the outcome of the investigations and the measures that will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The NSCDC's actions are a step towards ensuring accountability and transparency within the Corps. The detention of 24 personnel and the suspension of additional officers demonstrate a commitment to addressing misconduct. The Corps' efforts to investigate the incident and take disciplinary action will help to restore public trust and confidence in the NSCDC.
Key points
- The NSCDC has detained 24 personnel over the death of 33 alleged illegal miners in Niger State custody.
- The Corps has ordered its flag to be flown at half-mast nationwide for three days.
- The NSCDC is committed to transparency, human rights, professional ethics, and accountability.
