The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has paraded its suspended Niger State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and 23 other personnel in connection with the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the state.
The 24 officers are currently being detained as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the detainees while in NSCDC custody.
The suspects were arrested during anti-illegal mining operations conducted by the Corps in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026. They reportedly died on September 17.
The NSCDC had initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, while stating that the actual cause would be established through medical examination. However, the incident sparked public outrage and protests in Minna, with questions raised over the conditions under which the suspects were detained.
Following the incident, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the deaths.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, subsequently suspended the Niger State Commandant and 20 other officers pending the outcome of an independent investigation. The officers included personnel responsible for station security, arrest and investigation, intelligence, legal services, and day and night custody duties.
The NSCDC later detained three additional personnel, bringing the total number of officers held in connection with the incident to 24.
The Federal Government has also constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths. The committee is expected to establish the identities of the deceased, examine the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, determine the cause of death and establish whether there was negligence, misconduct or other responsibility.
The committee, chaired by retired DSS Deputy Director-General Jonathan Kure, has been given two weeks to complete its investigation and submit its report to the Minister of Interior.
Meanwhile, a new NSCDC Niger State Commandant, Abdulhamid Kabara, has assumed office following Aniviye’s suspension.
Kabara expressed sadness over the loss of lives and assured that the Corps would continue to carry out its duties within the law while ensuring that the dignity, safety and welfare of persons in its custody are protected.
The investigation is ongoing, and the actual cause and circumstances of the deaths remain subject to the outcome of the independent probe.
