Niger govt unaware of miners’ arrest before deaths in NSCDC custody — Bago

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago stated that his administration was unaware of the arrest and detention of suspected illegal miners before their deaths in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The incident, which occurred in Minna, has raised concerns and prompted investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 37 miners out of the 67 arrested.

Bago disclosed this during an interview on Channels Television while addressing the deaths of the miners detained at the NSCDC facility.

The suspected miners were apprehended by NSCDC personnel during operations targeting illegal mining activities in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas on September 15 and 16. Bago specified that the state only learned about the arrests following the public revelation of the deaths and subsequent protests. He stated, "The state had no prior knowledge of the operation because the security agencies involved were under the control of the Federal Government."

The precise cause of the deaths remains under investigation, with authorities pointing to overcrowding and potential exposure to hazardous substances as possible factors. Bago expressed concern over the trend of some communities shifting from farming to mining, which could make it difficult for residents accustomed to mining profits to return to agriculture. He emphasized that mining is a significant industry, with foreign expatriates operating in the state without the ability to curb their activities.

Additionally, Bago highlighted the challenges faced by many artisanal miners, who often lack protective equipment and adequate living conditions. He also called for social interventions, including educational and scholarship opportunities for the children of miners. The federal government has since ordered an independent investigation into the incident, while 24 NSCDC personnel are currently detained in connection with the case.