FG suspends Niger NSCDC commandant over miners’ deaths

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has suspended the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Suberu Aniviye, following the deaths of suspected illegal miners in the state. The deaths occurred during enforcement operations in Minna, the state capital, on September 15 and 16, 2026. The Minister has ordered a full investigation into the incident, with the NSCDC conducting a comprehensive inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The NSCDC has cautioned against speculation over the cause of the deaths, stating that reports attributing them to any specific disease remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation. The Minister urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding to allow for a transparent investigation.

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