Crisis in Niger: 37 Detainees Die in NSCDC Custody, Sparks Curfew and Probes

Niger State is grappling with a severe crisis following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna. The tragic incident, discovered in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, has prompted widespread concern and swift governmental action, including the imposition of a 24-hour curfew across the state capital and the suspension of mining activities.

The deceased were among a larger group arrested on September 15 and 16 during a “burst operation” conducted by the NSCDC Niger State Command. The operation targeted illegal mining sites around M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto village, with authorities citing concerns over environmental destruction and the disregard for government directives on mining. The NSCDC confirmed the deaths, initially attributing them to a "suspected disease outbreak" but later clarifying that the actual cause had not been conclusively established. The bodies have since been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examinations to determine the precise cause of death.

In response to the escalating tension and public outcry, the Niger State Government, led by Governor Mohammed Bago, has taken decisive measures. On Friday, the Governor announced an immediate 24-hour curfew in Minna, effective after Juma’at prayers, to prevent a breakdown of law and order. All mining activities throughout the state have been suspended indefinitely. Furthermore, the NSCDC State Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and his team were immediately suspended to ensure an impartial investigation. Governor Bago described the deaths as tragic and unacceptable, declaring three days of mourning in the state and cancelling an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally scheduled for Minna.

Multiple investigations have been launched into the incident. The Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to take over the police probe, aiming to unravel the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate deaths. The Niger State Government has also constituted a high-level committee of inquiry, chaired by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, with Commissioner for Homeland Security Maurice Magaji serving as secretary. Separate committees have been established by the State Security Service (DSS), the police, and the NSCDC. Governor Bago cautioned against premature conclusions regarding the cause of death, suggesting possibilities such as suffocation from overcrowding in the detention facility or exposure to hazardous substances linked to illegal mining. Forensic examinations, medical assessments, and autopsies are underway to provide scientific clarity.

The incident has also brought to light various allegations and concerns. Relatives of the arrested individuals have gathered at the NSCDC headquarters, seeking information and disputing the claim that everyone detained was involved in illegal mining. One woman alleged her sister was arrested while working on a farm, possessing only a hoe and a cutlass. There are also reports, though unverified, that children between the ages of nine and fourteen, as well as women, were among those detained. These allegations underscore the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into the arrests and conditions of detention. Amnesty International has called for an independent investigation, demanding justice for the victims and their families, and urging accountability for any wrongdoing.

Governor Bago has assured the public and the victims' families of the government's commitment to a deep and thorough probe. He pledged that those responsible for any injustice would be held accountable and that the government would engage with the deceased's families, for whom a register is being compiled. Residents, particularly youths, have been urged to remain calm and refrain from violence, as the authorities work to establish the full facts and restore peace and order in the state.