Minister Tunji-Ojo Orders Investigation into Miners' Deaths

Following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State, a survivor reported that an unidentified substance was sprayed inside their cell after being detained by officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The incident occurred during enforcement operations on September 15 and 16.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, visited the survivors and ordered a full-scale investigation into the deaths. The NSCDC leadership has directed senior officials of its Niger State Command to step aside pending the inquiry's outcome.

Commandant General Ahmed Audi has been tasked with ensuring a transparent investigation, with any culpable personnel facing appropriate sanctions. Additionally, President Bola Tinubu has called for a separate investigation, emphasizing that suspected illegal miners are entitled to their fundamental rights while in custody.

He stressed the need for law enforcement operations to respect human dignity.