The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has taken 24 of its personnel into custody for investigation into the death of 33 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Audi, has assured that due process, transparency, and accountability will be followed in the investigation. The personnel, including high-ranking officers, are facing internal disciplinary measures and possible prosecution.
The NSCDC had initially reported that 21 personnel were being held, but the number has increased to 24, with three additional personnel identified and placed on suspension. The Corps Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, disclosed the development while parading the officers and men at the Corps Headquarters in Abuja. The personnel are undergoing rigorous interrogation and administrative disciplinary action.
The joint operation, conducted with the Commandant General's Special Investigation Squad (SIS), took the personnel into protective custody on September 17, 2026. They are being held at the National Headquarters in Abuja, where they will be made available for further investigation and possible prosecution by the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigation panels.
In a demonstration of grief and institutional remorse, the Commandant General has ordered that the NSCDC flag be flown at half-mast across all formations for three days, starting from September 20, 2026. This move signals the Corps' collective mourning and resolve to purge the system of bad eggs. The NSCDC has expressed its commitment to transparency, human rights protection, and professional ethics.
The Commandant General emphasized that the NSCDC does not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness, or any action that undermines the fundamental rights of citizens or the sacred trust reposed in the Corps. He pledged that the leadership of the NSCDC remains unwavering in its commitment to transparency and accountability.
The NSCDC has released the names of the officers being held in connection with the incident, including Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye, DCC. Ajayi Philips, and DCC. John Agrahau Chagwa, among others. The personnel are facing various allegations, including lack of supervision and gross misconduct.
The NSCDC has appreciated the patience and understanding of Nigerians during the internal re-evaluation and has pledged to keep the public abreast of the outcome of the investigation. The Corps remains committed to upholding its values of integrity, professionalism, and discipline.
Key points
- 24 NSCDC personnel detained over death of 33 suspected miners
- Investigation underway, with due process and transparency assured
- NSCDC to face personnel found culpable with full weight of internal disciplinary measures and law
