Not fewer than 37 suspected illegal miners, including teenagers, have died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The victims were among scores arrested on September 15–16 during a raid on mining sites near M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto village.
NSCDC’s Niger State commandant, Suberu Aniviye, said detainees were found dead early on September 17, initially attributing it to a suspected disease outbreak.
Governor Umar Bago called the incident “sad and tragic” and said the exact cause remains unconfirmed. Investigators are examining two leading theories: suffocation from overcrowding in the detention cell, or exposure to hazardous mining chemicals such as lead.
Bago ordered the illegal mining site shut down and autopsies conducted.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered the immediate suspension of Aniviye following the deaths, with his spokesperson saying a full investigation would proceed while the commandant remains suspended.
The Niger State government has also set up a committee of inquiry led by the Deputy Governor, while NSCDC’s corps commandant-general ordered a separate internal probe into detention conditions and medical care.
Police have opened their own investigation.
Amnesty International Nigeria has demanded an independent probe into the deaths.
Autopsy results are still pending. Authorities have appealed for calm as multiple investigations continue.
Administrator and Writer
