37 Miners Died of Suffocation in NSCDC Custody — Investigative Panel

The Federal Government’s Independent Investigative Committee probing the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State has concluded that the victims died from asphyxiation (suffocation).

Committee Chairman and former Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, Jonathan Kure, disclosed the finding on Tuesday while presenting the panel’s report to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in Abuja.

The 37 deceased were among scores of persons arrested during NSCDC operations against suspected illegal mining in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026. They died in the early hours of September 17 while held at the NSCDC Niger State Command facility in Minna.

The NSCDC had initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, pending medical examinations. However, accounts from survivors and other sources pointed to severe overcrowding, reports indicated that more than 60 detainees were packed into a cell designed for about 10 people extreme heat, and poor ventilation.

Some survivors said detainees pleaded for the cell door to be opened but were ignored.Following the incident, President Bola Tinubu directed a comprehensive investigation. Minister Tunji-Ojo suspended the then Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and 20 other officers pending the outcome of the probe.

A 10-member independent committee chaired by Kure was constituted to establish the identities of the deceased, examine the circumstances of their arrest and detention, and determine the cause and manner of death through medical and forensic means.

The panel’s confirmation of asphyxiation as the cause of death marks a significant development in the case. Further details from the full report, including any recommendations on accountability, disciplinary action, or preventive measures, are expected to follow.