Niger State is in mourning after 37 suspected illegal miners died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.
The miners, many of whom were children were arrested on September 16 during operations against illegal mining activities in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas. In the early hours of September 17, they were found dead in the detention facility.
Governor Bago’s Response
Describing the incident as “sad and tragic,” Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago confirmed the death toll at a press conference. 
In his statement, he announced that the state government had set up a committee of inquiry. The committee will be chaired by the Deputy Governor, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the mass death. However, forensic examinations, medical tests and autopsies are underway to determine the exact cause of death.
As of now, possible causes of the deaths include overcrowding and poor ventilation in the cell they were put in. Also under review are a suspected disease outbreak, or exposure to hazardous chemicals linked to illegal mining.
The NSCDC State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and his team have, however, been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
In lieu of this, Governor Bago declared three days of mourning across the state and postponed the flag-off of political campaign activities that had been scheduled for the weekend.
He pleaded with the people to stay calm and assured the families of the deceased that the government would see the matter to a logical conclusion.
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Protests in Minna
On Thursday night, the news of the deaths triggered protests in Minna. Angry relatives, miners and sympathisers took to the streets, chanting for justice.
Some protesters continued on Friday to attack public institutions and public transport buses with stones and sticks, before the police dispersed the crowd using tear gas. However, more people have been seen gathering in protest, with roads blocked.
24-hour Curfew in Minna till Further Notice
In response to the unrest, Governor Bago has declared a 24-hour curfew across Minna.
The restriction takes effect immediately after the Friday Jumu’ah prayers and will remain in force until further notice.
Residents have been directed to remain indoors and avoid all unnecessary movements. Security agencies have been instructed to enforce the directive and protect lives and property.
President Tinubu Orders Full Investigation
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the life of every Nigerian matters and that no citizen should die in government custody due to negligence, abuse or inhumane treatment.
He directed that any official found responsible through action or negligence must be arrested and prosecuted.
Tinubu stressed that suspension of officers is only an administrative step and cannot replace proper criminal accountability. He also extended condolences to the affected families and called for calm.
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