State police, miners’ deaths top agenda as N’Assembly resumes

The National Assembly is set to resume plenary discussions on Tuesday, with state police establishment and deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in custody of the NSCDC in Niger State as the main agenda. Additionally, lawmakers will revisit constitutional and electoral reforms, as well as address ongoing insecurity issues. Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs Chairman Yemi Adaramodu stated that the resumption will focus on key national issues, including insecurity and broader economic challenges.

The proposed state police bill has been transmitted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly, following widespread demands for a decentralized policing structure amid persistent security challenges. The 37 miners reportedly died while in NSCDC custody on September 17, 2026, prompting President Bola Tinubu to direct a probe. A 10-member independent committee has been constituted to investigate the incident, with 21 NSCDC officers detained and three others arrested.

The Assembly's resumption is marked by increased pressure to tackle insecurity, strengthen policing, and ensure accountability in national affairs.