Niger State imposes curfew after 37 die in NSCDC custody

Authorities in Niger State, Nigeria, have imposed a 24-hour curfew in the capital city of Minna following protests over the deaths of at least 37 people, including minors, in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The curfew was announced by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago on Friday, September 18, 2026, and took effect immediately after Friday prayers. The deaths occurred after the NSCDC detained suspects arrested in connection with illegal mining activities in the Wushishi-Lukoto area west of Minna. The detainees were held in cells at the NSCDC office, where they were found dead on Thursday, September 17. Governor Bago stated that 67 people were arrested and detained in the facility. The victims were reportedly between the ages of 14 and 18. The exact cause of death has not been officially established. The NSCDC initially suggested a disease outbreak may have been involved, but later said the cause would be determined by medical examinations. Survivors and some officials have cited suffocation, dehydration, or possible poisoning from mining substances.