FG Suspends Niger NSCDC Commandant over Deaths of 33 Miners

The Federal Government has suspended the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, following the deaths of 33 suspected illegal miners in custody.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Tunji-Ojo gave the directives on Friday through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alao Babatunde.

The minister directed the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to conduct a transparent and unhindered investigation.

The deaths occurred in the early hours of Thursday around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna, Niger State.

The deceased suspects were among those arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining across the state on September 15 and 16.

Following the minister’s directive, Audi ordered Aniviye to step aside and report to the NSCDC national headquarters in Abuja.

He also directed the state heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation to appear before the inquiry panel.

The NSCDC subsequently deployed a new commandant to take charge of the Niger State Command.

Tunji-Ojo described the deaths as unfortunate and said the government would establish what happened through the investigation.

“It is an unfortunate incident. However, a full investigation will be conducted,” the minister said.

He added that the government’s priority remained the protection of lives and security.

Tunji-Ojo appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding while the investigation continues.

He also expressed condolences to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the families of the deceased.

The NSCDC said its investigation would establish whether any personnel breached the law or professional procedures.

The Corps also promised to sanction any officer found culpable after the inquiry.

Such officers could face administrative or disciplinary measures, as well as criminal prosecution where the evidence warrants it.

The NSCDC Commandant General assured the Interior Minister that investigators would pursue all relevant facts.

The Corps also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of people in its custody.

The deaths have drawn attention to the conditions surrounding the detention of suspects following the anti-illegal mining operations.

Authorities are expected to establish the immediate cause of the deaths and determine whether any personnel failed in their duties.

The outcome of the investigation will also determine further action against any officer found responsible.