Deji Adeyanju Joins Probe into Minna Miners' Deaths

Deji Adeyanju, a human rights lawyer and activist, has been appointed to the Federal Government’s independent committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal gold miners in Minna, Niger State. The tragedy occurred between September 15 and 16, 2026, when the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arrested over 50 suspected illegal miners.

Two days later, the detainees were found dead in a poorly ventilated cell at the NSCDC facility. Survivors described scenes of panic and suffocation, leading to protests in Minna and the imposition of a 24-hour curfew by the Niger State Government.

Following a directive from President Bola Tinubu for a full investigation, a 10-member committee was formed. Adeyanju accepted the appointment, stating he would not accept any monetary compensation and would cover his own expenses.

He emphasized the need for transparency and justice for the victims, warning against any attempts to suppress the truth.