The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has released the names of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in its custody in Niger State. The victims were arrested during operations against illegal mining on September 15 and 16, 2026. According to the NSCDC, the suspects died on September 17, shortly after their arrest. The corps has attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak.
The NSCDC moved the bodies to the General Hospital in Minna for medical examination to establish the actual cause of death. The examination aims to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The incident has sparked public concern, with many calling for an investigation into the matter. The names of the deceased persons have been released, and they include Ibrahim Sani, Fahad Sa’adu, Abdulsalam Ismail, and 34 others.
Youths in the state protested the deaths, prompting Governor Mohammed Bago to impose a 24-hour curfew on Friday. The governor also revealed that some survivors were receiving treatment in hospital, while others had returned to their families. The Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) interviewed the survivors before their reunification with their families.
The incident has attracted widespread attention, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the treatment of suspects in custody. The NSCDC has been criticized for its handling of the situation, with some calling for the investigation into the deaths. The government has been urged to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Governor Bago's administration has taken steps to address the situation, including the imposition of a curfew to maintain order. The governor has also ensured that survivors receive medical attention and are reunited with their families. The incident has highlighted the need for improved handling of suspects in custody and the importance of transparency in such cases.
The release of the names of the deceased persons is seen as a step towards transparency and accountability. The NSCDC has provided a list of the 37 suspected illegal miners who died in custody, and the public is now aware of the identities of the victims. The incident has sparked a national conversation about the treatment of suspects and the need for reform.
The incident has also attracted reactions from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and human rights activists. Many have called for an investigation into the deaths and for those responsible to be held accountable. The government has been urged to take concrete steps to prevent similar incidents in the future and to ensure that suspects are treated humanely while in custody.
Key points
- The NSCDC released the names of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in custody in Niger State.
- The incident sparked public concern, protests, and calls for an investigation.
- Governor Mohammed Bago imposed a 24-hour curfew in the state following the protests.
