Tinubu Orders Probe Into Deaths of Suspected Illegal Miners in Niger

By Adebola Muili

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

The President gave the directive on Friday, September 18, 2026, following reports of deaths among suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations around the Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna.

Tinubu, who expressed deep concern over the incident, said no Nigerian should die in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the reported deaths constituted a grave matter requiring urgent investigation and accountability.

He directed the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrests and deaths, including the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, the conditions in which they were held, the number of persons detained at the facility and the medical attention provided to them.

The investigation is also expected to establish the events that preceded the deaths and determine whether any official action, abuse or negligence contributed to the incident.

Tinubu said the Federal Government would continue to tackle illegal mining and other criminal activities, but insisted that enforcement agencies must operate within the law and respect the dignity and fundamental rights of persons in custody.

“The fact that these individuals were suspected of illegal mining does not in any way remove their right to life, dignity and humane treatment while in government custody,” the President said.

He directed that any official found to have contributed to the deaths through action, abuse or negligence should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

“There must be accountability,” he added.

The President further warned that the suspension of officers linked to the incident must not be treated as a substitute for criminal investigation and prosecution where evidence establishes culpability.

“The suspension of officers is only an administrative step and must not substitute for a proper determination of criminal responsibility where the evidence warrants prosecution,” he said.

Tinubu also directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with all relevant investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with the investigation or attempts to frustrate efforts to establish the truth.

He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.

The President also appealed for calm among the affected families and communities, assuring them that the Federal Government would pursue the truth and take appropriate action based on credible evidence.

“We must never allow the pursuit of one form of illegality to create another. The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” Tinubu said.