Nigerian Interior Minister Suspends 20 NSCDC Officers

On September 19, 2026, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the suspension of 20 officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in connection with the deaths of 30 individuals who were in custody after being arrested for suspected illegal mining. This decision followed a directive from President Bola for a thorough investigation into the incident, which occurred on September 17, 2026.

A ten-member independent committee, chaired by retired DSS Deputy Director-General Jonathan Kure, has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the identities of the deceased, and the causes of their deaths. The committee is tasked with submitting its report within two weeks and may involve experts and public input.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need for cooperation and warned against any attempts to obstruct the investigation. He expressed condolences to the victims' families and called for calm during the inquiry.