37 miners die in Niger NSCDC custody after 67 were held in one cell, says Gov Bago

Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago revealed that 67 suspected illegal and artisanal miners had been held in a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) cell prior to 37 of them dying in custody. The miners were apprehended during NSDC enforcement operations around M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas on September 15-16, 2026. The bodies were discovered on September 17, but the NSCDC initially speculated a disease outbreak may have caused the deaths.

However, they later clarified that the cause had yet to be determined, stating that medical and laboratory examinations were necessary to ascertain the circumstances. Bago provided further details, stating that authorities were investigating overcrowding and potential exposure to hazardous substances from mining activities as possible causes.

The governor emphasized the importance of responsible mining practices, including the use of protective gear and public education about the dangers of mining. He urged for prompt autopsies and scientific examinations to uncover the truth behind the deaths. The incident prompted the Federal Government to suspend the NSCDC Commandant in Niger State, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and order a comprehensive investigation.