Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Minna, the state capital, in response to unrest connected to the deaths of suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The measure takes effect immediately after Friday Jumu’ah prayers and will continue until further notice. Authorities have instructed residents to stay indoors and limit movement to essential needs only. Security agencies have been directed to enforce the order and safeguard lives and property.
The curfew follows protests in Minna on Thursday. The demonstrations arose after reports that a group of suspected illegal miners, arrested during enforcement operations in the Wushishi-Lukoto area, had died in NSCDC custody. Multiple reports place the number of deaths at around 37, though official confirmation of the exact figure and cause remains part of ongoing inquiries.
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In a related development, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of the deaths. The NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has directed the Niger State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, to step aside and report to the corps headquarters in Abuja to appear before the investigative panel. Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence, and Investigation units in the state command have also been instructed to report to the panel.
A new commandant has been appointed to take immediate charge of the NSCDC command in Niger State. The corps has stated that any personnel found to have violated the law or professional standards will face appropriate sanctions.
The Federal Government has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the need for a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to determining the facts surrounding the deaths and upholding the lives, dignity, and fundamental rights of citizens.
State authorities have also taken additional steps, including measures related to mining activities, while stressing the importance of maintaining public order as investigations proceed. Residents are advised to comply with the curfew and monitor official channels for updates.
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