Bago suspends Niger NSCDC command, probes deaths of 37 miners

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has suspended the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) command in Niger State following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in state custody. The governor, addressing journalists in Minna, described the fatalities as "tragic and unacceptable" and ordered a committee of inquiry along with separate investigations by security agencies.

The NSCDC Commandant and his team were suspended to allow for an impartial probe. Bago emphasized that the government would not tolerate any form of injustice and vowed to investigate the cause of death thoroughly, ruling out premature conclusions. He cautioned against speculation and urged residents to remain calm, avoiding violence which would not bring back the deceased.

The governor also directed the suspension of mining activities at the Ema Ushishi site due to concerns over inadequate safety measures among miners. The government will await the investigation's findings before taking further action, promising to support the families of the deceased.