Babangida Denounces Deaths of Miners in NSCDC Custody

General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida condemned the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, describing the incident as “tragic” and “deeply disturbing.” In a statement made available on Friday, Babangida urged all parties involved to pursue peace for the sake of coexistence. He commended the Niger State Government for its actions to reduce tension, including the postponement of the APC campaign flag-off scheduled for Saturday.

The government has initiated a commission of inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the miners' deaths, although the names of the panel members have not been disclosed. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the suspension of the NSCDC Commandant in Minna to facilitate a thorough investigation.

In response to unrest, including youth protests and road blockages, the state government imposed a 24-hour curfew in Minna. Despite the curfew, disturbances continued, with no reported casualties.