FG Launches Probe into Niger Miners' Deaths, Ensures Accountability

On September 22, the Federal Government inaugurated a 10-member independent investigative committee to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. This initiative followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's directive for a thorough and transparent inquiry into the incident, which occurred on September 17 during anti-illegal mining operations.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the inauguration in Abuja, described the deaths as deeply disturbing and stressed the importance of safety in government custody. The committee is tasked with identifying the deceased, establishing the circumstances of their arrest and detention, and determining the causes of death through medical and forensic examinations.

It will also investigate allegations of torture, negligence, and misconduct by officials involved. Tunji-Ojo assured that no official would be shielded from accountability and warned against any interference with the investigation.