Niger Governor Bago Confirms Deaths in NSCDC Custody

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago disclosed that not all individuals who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC) were illegal miners, mentioning an Igbo man detained for theft. This statement was made in Minna after attending a fidau prayer for the 37 deceased illegal miners.

Bago emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, assuring that findings would be made public. He noted that preliminary information indicated some detainees were already in custody before new arrests were made.

The governor announced a holistic approach to the investigation, collaborating with mining stakeholders, and pledged government support for the families of the deceased, which would be supervised by the Emir of Minna. Additionally, Bago stated that the government would enforce a ban on mining in residential areas and implement responsible mining regulations.

The NSCDC appointed AS Kabara as the new commandant, replacing Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, who was suspended due to the incident.