In a decisive move that underscores the Federal Government's commitment to accountability and the sanctity of human life, the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered a full-scale, transparent and unhindered investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command.
The directive, contained in a press statement issued on September 18, 2026, signals a significant escalation in the response to the tragedy that has drawn national attention and raised grave questions about detention protocols, oversight and the conduct of enforcement operations.
In immediate compliance with the Minister's directive, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, OFR, mni, has ordered the Niger State Commandant to step aside with immediate effect. The Commandant is to report forthwith to the National Headquarters in Abuja, alongside his Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation, to face the constituted panel of inquiry.
The move represents a rare and pointed demonstration of institutional accountability senior officers directly linked to the operational chain that led to the arrests and subsequent deaths are now themselves subject to scrutiny.
In the same vein, the Commandant General has directed a new Commandant to proceed to Niger State and assume immediate command of the State Command. The transition is intended to ensure continuity of operations while preserving the integrity of the investigation and preventing any potential interference with evidence or witnesses.
The Commandant General has assured the Honourable Minister of Interior that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation process. In a firm statement of intent, he declared that any officer or personnel found to have acted contrary to the law, established procedures or professional standards will face appropriate administrative, disciplinary and where applicable criminal sanctions in accordance with extant laws and regulations.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of every person in its custody. It further pledged to continue ensuring that the enforcement of its statutory mandate including the fight against illegal mining and the protection of Nigeria's critical national assets is carried out in accordance with the law and established professional standards.
The panel of inquiry is expected to commence sittings immediately, with the Niger State Commandant and the identified heads of departments appearing before it at the National Headquarters, Abuja. The findings of the panel, along with the outcome of ongoing medical examinations at General Hospital, Minna, will determine the next course of action whether administrative, disciplinary or criminal.
The general public has been urged to remain calm as the investigative processes take their course.
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