Calls for Probe After Miners Die in NSCDC Custody

Nigerian authorities are investigating the deaths of several suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, prompting widespread calls for a transparent and evidence-based probe. The incident has drawn reactions from human rights bodies, civil society groups, and government officials, all demanding accountability and due process. The NSCDC conducted enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining in the Wushishi-Lukoto area of Minna, Niger State, on September 15 and 16, 2026, leading to multiple arrests. In the early hours of September 17, a number of detainees from these operations were found dead in custody. The exact number of deaths remains disputed, with some reports citing 37 individuals and others referring to about 33. In response, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered the Niger State NSCDC Commandant to step aside pending an investigation. The NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, directed senior state command officers to appear before an investigative panel, and a new commandant was deployed to oversee the state command.