The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, OFR, mni, has ordered a high-powered investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.
The directive, approved by the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, followed the deaths recorded during coordinated operations conducted by the Niger State Command on September 15 and 16, 2026, along the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis, an area identified as a hotspot for illegal mining activities.
The NSCDC said the investigation is aimed at establishing the circumstances surrounding the deaths, including the condition of the suspects when they were arrested, the duration and conditions of their detention, and the medical attention provided to them.
Audi has directed the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation to lead the investigative panel.
As part of measures to ensure an impartial inquiry, the Niger State Commandant has been directed to step aside from his position and immediately report to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja for questioning.
A new commandant has meanwhile been appointed to take charge of the state command pending the outcome of the investigation.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, where medical examinations are being conducted to establish the actual cause of death.
The Corps said it is working with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies to ensure that appropriate medical and public-health measures are taken.
The NSCDC also cautioned against premature conclusions regarding the cause of the deaths, particularly reports linking the incident to a specific disease.
According to the Corps, such claims remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation, stressing that it would refrain from speculation until the relevant examinations are concluded.
Audi has further directed that the health and welfare of all persons currently in NSCDC custody be given the “utmost priority”, while steps are being taken to protect personnel who may have come into contact with the affected suspects.
The Corps expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated and appropriately addressed based on established facts.
While reaffirming the NSCDC’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources, the Corps said enforcement operations must be conducted in accordance with the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of persons in its custody.
The public has been urged to remain calm and allow the medical and investigative processes to run their course, with the NSCDC promising to release further updates as verified information becomes available.
