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ABUJA, NIGERIA — A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Dan Amanan Fune Emirate of Yobe State, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, Ph.D., has condemned the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna, Niger State, describing it as a grave tragedy that requires a full and transparent investigation.
Ajia stated this in a statement issued on Monday by his Director of Communications, Mallam AbdulRahaman Aliagan.
He commiserated with the Federal Government, the Government and people of Niger State and, in particular, the families of the deceased, saying the circumstances surrounding the deaths demand urgent and honest answers.
The victims were reportedly among scores of suspects arrested during anti-illegal mining operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026.
Ajia said the death of persons while in state custody raises serious questions about compliance with established detention procedures and standards.
He stressed that persons arrested for alleged offences are entitled to lawful investigation and due process and must not be exposed to conditions capable of endangering their lives or wellbeing.
He noted that the incident underscores the need for security agencies to uphold rigorous standards in the management of detention facilities, including adequate supervision, appropriate holding conditions, access to basic necessities and effective safeguards for the welfare of all persons in custody.
The APC chieftain also called for stronger coordination among security and law enforcement agencies, insisting that suspected illegal miners must be properly profiled, investigated and prosecuted strictly through established legal channels.
He emphasised that enforcement of laws against illegal mining must be pursued in a manner that upholds human rights and the dignity of persons in custody, without exception.
Ajia commended the Federal and Niger State Governments for their prompt intervention, as well as the police and administrative investigations already underway.
He noted that the Federal Government has constituted a ten-member independent committee to investigate the arrests, detention and circumstances surrounding the deaths, and that officers connected with the incident have been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
He appealed to residents, particularly youths in Niger State, to remain calm and allow the investigative process to proceed unhindered, cautioning that public anger over the tragedy must not translate into further loss of life or destruction of property.
He urged the authorities to maintain open and regular communication with the affected families and the public as the investigation progresses.
Ajia called for an independent, thorough and transparent determination of the circumstances that led to the deaths, insisting that any individual found culpable should be held accountable under the law, irrespective of rank or position.
He said accountability, respect for human rights and professionalism in security operations remain essential pillars for strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions.
He concluded by praying for the repose of the deceased and for fortitude for their families to bear the loss.
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