Miners’ deaths: Probe panel uncovers ‘elements’ of institutional gaps, overzealousness in NSCDC

The committee set up by the Nigerian government to probe the deaths of 37 arrested miners in the custody of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna, Niger State, has identified ‘elements’ of institutional gaps in the agency, and overzealousness on the part of personnel, in its preliminary findings.

DAILY POST reports that the suspected illegal miners died overnight in the detention facility of the Minna command of the security agency after their arrest in raids conducted on September 15 and 16, 2026.

Following the nationwide outrage that trailed the incident, the Federal Government set up a committee to investigate the matter.

The Independent Investigative Committee on the Reported Deaths of 37 Persons in the Custody of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna, Niger State, addressed the press in Abuja on Tuesday, during which it offered an insight into its preliminary findings.

Responding to questions from journalists, chairman of the committee, Jonathan Kure, hinted that the panel had uncovered “elements” of institutional gaps and overzealousness in the NSCDC, among other factors.

“We have seen some elements of institutional gaps, some elements of overzealousness, some elements of the need for more training and some elements of unprofessionalism,” he said.

However, Kure earlier said the panel is requesting two more weeks to conclude the assignment.

Explaining the need for more time, Kure said, “The committee is yet to conclude its assignment on account of the following:

“The large volume of testimony and documentary evidence requiring meticulous review and collation.

“Pending forensic and pathology reports essential to establishing the cause of death; and the need to afford all persons implicated – including the officers already suspended – a fair opportunity to respond, so that the committee’s findings and recommendations will withstand scrutiny and command public confidence.”

According to him, “In the circumstance, the committee has requested an extension of time of two weeks, that is, from the initial submission date of 7th October to 21st October 2026, to enable it conclude its investigation and submit a thorough and credible final report.”

The committee, in the same vein, acknowledged the cooperation so far received from the Federal Ministry of Interior, the NSCDC, the Niger State government, Minna Emirate, members of the affected communities and survivors.

It noted that appreciable progress has been recorded in the investigation, including inspection of the custody facility, conduct of autopsies, taking of witness statements from NSCDC personnel, survivors, families and other witnesses, and the collection of documentary and forensic evidence.

Miners’ deaths: Probe panel uncovers ‘elements’ of institutional gaps, overzealousness in NSCDC