An independent investigative committee has confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners died from asphyxiation while being held in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
Presenting the panel’s report to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in Abuja, committee chairman Jonathan Kure stated that the tragic deaths on September 17, 2026, were entirely avoidable, noting that the victims—including 14 minors—were detained in inhuman conditions.
Key Highlights of the Panel’s Recommendations:
- Financial Compensation: The panel recommended a total of ₦1.4 billion in compensation to be paid to the families of 33 victims and 44 survivors.
- Disciplinary Actions: The committee called for the summary dismissal of the Niger State NSCDC commandant and other officers directly involved in the detention and the subsequent events leading to the deaths. Furthermore, Minister Tunji-Ojo directed the immediate suspension of officers accused of tampering with or cleaning up the detention facility to destroy evidence.
- Institutional Reforms: The report emphasized the urgent need for structural and leadership reforms within the corps to prevent future occurrences.
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