FG suspends Niger NSCDC commandant over deaths of miners in custody

The Federal Government has suspended the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps following the deaths of suspected illegal miners while in the agency’s custody in Minna.

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered Commandant Suberu Aniviye to step aside while a full investigation is conducted into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The affected detainees had been arrested during enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining activities on September 15 and 16 around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna.

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has confirmed that 37 people died while in NSCDC custody.

The exact cause of death has not yet been established.

Tunji-Ojo directed NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi to conduct what the government described as a full, transparent and unhindered investigation.

Following the directive, Aniviye was ordered to report to the NSCDC headquarters in Abuja along with senior officials responsible for operations, mining, legal matters, intelligence and investigation.

A new commandant has been directed to assume control of the Niger State command while the investigation continues.

The NSCDC said personnel found to have breached the law, operational procedures or professional standards could face administrative, disciplinary or criminal action.

Separate investigations are also being conducted by the police, Niger State Government and other authorities.

The deaths have generated protests and heightened tensions in Minna, prompting the state government to impose a 24-hour curfew on the state capital.