A total of 37 suspected illegal miners died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, according to official reports. The deaths have sparked public outrage and calls for accountability. The NSCDC commandant in the state, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, has been suspended pending an investigation into the incident.
Survivors of the incident have reported that an unidentified substance was sprayed inside the detention cell, causing a strong smell and leading to the collapse of several detainees. These claims have been echoed by multiple sources, including local media and survivors. The Ministry of Interior, led by Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has confirmed the suspension of the commandant and is conducting an inquiry.
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called for an independent investigation into the deaths, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability. The incident has also prompted a 24-hour curfew in Niger State as authorities work to manage the situation.
The deaths have raised concerns about the conditions of detention and the treatment of suspects by security agencies. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on uncovering the full circumstances of the tragic event.
