20 NSCDC officers suspended over deaths of detained suspected illegal miners

The Federal Government has formed a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths of 37 individuals detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State due to suspected illegal mining. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the panel on Saturday, following President Bola Tinubu's directive for a thorough probe into the incident.

The 37 detainees perished on Thursday, September 17, 2026, while under the custody of the NSCDC's Niger State Command. The cause of their deaths remains unknown, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The government's statement outlined that the committee's mandate includes identifying the deceased, examining their arrests, detention, and the factors leading to their demise.

Additionally, the panel will assess accountability, negligence, misconduct, and propose suitable actions, compensation, and preventive measures. The committee, chaired by retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, Jonathan Kure, and secreted by Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma, comprises various representatives from both government and civil society.

The panel is expected to complete its investigation within two weeks and submit its report to the Minister of Interior.