Niger Governor Calls for Calm Amid Miners' Deaths Investigation

Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago has urged the public to await the results of investigations into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The circumstances surrounding the deaths are unclear, with possibilities including poisoning and suffocation.

Preliminary observations revealed that some deceased individuals had blood or froth around their mouths and burns on their bodies. Governor Bago stated that overcrowding in the detention facility and exposure to hazardous substances from illegal mining are being examined.

Samples have been collected for laboratory analysis, and forensic investigations and autopsies are underway. Protests erupted in Minna, leading to a 24-hour curfew imposed by Bago.

He also suspended mining activities across Niger State, citing concerns over illegal mining's impact on youth. The NSCDC, Nigeria Police Force, and Department of State Services are conducting separate investigations into the incident.