{
  "id": 8237070,
  "title": "Atiku demands accountability over deaths of suspected miners in NSCDC custody",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/atiku-demands-accountability-over-deaths-of-suspected-miners-in-nscdc",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-18T12:00:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch",
    "slug": "punch",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/atiku-demands-accountability-over-deaths-of-suspected-miners-in-nscdc-custody/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for accountability following the deaths of 40 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. Atiku expressed deep sorrow over the loss of these individuals, who were entitled to protection and dignity while in government custody. He condemned the deaths, stating that no Nigerian should lose the right to life in government custody, irrespective of any allegations against them. The former presidential candidate commended the Federal Government for suspending the NSCDC commandant in Niger State and ordering an investigation, but emphasized that further steps are necessary. He demanded an independent, thorough, and transparent investigation, with public disclosure of its findings. Atiku stressed that those found responsible for the deaths, be them through action, abuse, or negligence, must face full accountability. He also called for more than just condolences to the families of the deceased, emphasizing the need for truth and justice. The deaths occurred during enforcement operations conducted by the NSCDC in M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16. Forensic examinations and autopsies are being conducted to establish the cause of death, with possible overcrowding and poor ventilation being among the emerging factors.",
  "summary": "Former VP Atiku Abubakar has demanded accountability for the deaths of suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the NSCDC in Niger State. Read More: https://punchng.com/atiku-demands-accountability-over-deaths-of-suspected-miners-in-nscdc-custody/",
  "key_points": [
    "Former VP Atiku demands accountability over 40 miners' deaths",
    "Atiku condemns loss of life in government custody, regardless of allegations",
    "Calls for independent investigation, public disclosure of findings"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 6,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch Nigeria",
        "title": "Atiku demands accountability over deaths of suspected miners in NSCDC custody",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/atiku-demands-accountability-over-deaths-of-suspected-miners-in-nscdc-8237915",
        "published": "2026-09-18T12:04:42.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Daily Post Nigeria",
        "title": "“No Nigerian should lose right to life in custody” — Atiku on Niger deaths",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/no-nigerian-should-lose-right-to-life-in-custody-atiku-on-niger-deaths",
        "published": "2026-09-18T12:10:57.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Premium Times",
        "title": "Niger State imposes 24-hour curfew after suspects die in NSCDC custody",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/niger-state-imposes-24-hour-curfew-after-suspects-die-in-nscdc-custody",
        "published": "2026-09-18T13:59:34.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Ripples Nigeria",
        "title": "Atiku demands justice for miners who died in NSCDC custody",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/atiku-demands-justice-for-miners-who-died-in-nscdc-custody",
        "published": "2026-09-18T14:27:14.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "BusinessDay Nigeria",
        "title": "Tinubu orders probe of 37 dead illegal miners at NSCDC custody",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/tinubu-orders-probe-of-37-dead-illegal-miners-at-nscdc-custody",
        "published": "2026-09-18T14:58:49.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}