Atiku Demands Accountability Over Deaths of 40 Suspected Miners in NSCDC Custody

Former Vice President and 2027 ADC presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has called for justice following the deaths of 40 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

In a statement posted on X, Atiku described the incident as “deeply saddening and profoundly disturbing,” stressing that every Nigerian in government custody is entitled to protection and dignity, regardless of the allegations against them.

“These were human beings, sons, fathers, brothers and loved ones, whose families had every right to expect that the state would protect their lives and dignity while they remained in custody,” he said. “No Nigerian should enter government custody and lose the most basic right of all: the right to life.”

Atiku commended the Federal Government for suspending the Niger State NSCDC commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and ordering a full investigation. However, he insisted that the probe must be independent, thorough, transparent, and its findings made public.

“The families of the deceased deserve more than condolences. They deserve the truth. They deserve justice. And Nigerians deserve the assurance that custody by the state will never become a death sentence,” he added.

The former Vice President expressed sympathy with the bereaved families, urging that the circumstances surrounding the deaths be established without delay.

The miners were arrested during NSCDC enforcement operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16. Authorities later reported that some detainees were found dead, allegedly due to a suspected disease outbreak.

Governor Umar Bago confirmed that 37 of the suspects died and said forensic and medical examinations were underway to determine the cause. Reports of overcrowding and poor ventilation in detention facilities have surfaced, but officials maintain that investigations are needed before conclusions can be drawn.

The Federal Government has suspended Aniviye and directed a full-scale probe, while the NSCDC has set up its own investigative team to review detention conditions and medical care provided to the suspects.