FG promises a transparent investigation into the Niger miners’ deaths, saying anyone found culpable will face accountability.
The Federal Government has promised justice over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. The miners died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on Friday September 18, 2026. He also expressed condolences to the victims’ families, the Wushishi community and the Niger State Government.
Idris said the government would not protect anyone found responsible for the deaths. However, he urged Nigerians not to prejudge the investigation.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable,” he said.
He added that the government must first establish the facts before determining responsibility. According to him, justice will follow the investigation’s findings.
Meanwhile, the deaths happened after NSCDC officers arrested suspected illegal miners in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis. The arrests took place during enforcement operations on September 15 and 16.
Following the incident, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye. He also ordered a full investigation into the deaths. The NSCDC has since formed its own investigative team.
The investigation will examine the miners’ condition during arrest and their time in custody. It will also review detention conditions and the medical care they received. Niger State Governor Umar Bago confirmed that 37 suspects died.
Forensic examinations, medical checks and autopsies are underway to determine the cause. Atiku Abubakar has also demanded accountability for anyone responsible through “action, abuse or negligence.”
The Federal Government has urged residents to remain calm while investigators establish what happened.
