Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago has revealed that 67 artisanal and suspected illegal miners were detained in a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) cell before 37 of them died in custody.
The miners were arrested during NSCDC operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026.
The deaths were discovered in the early hours of September 17.Initially, the NSCDC attributed the tragedy to a suspected disease outbreak, but later clarified that the actual cause had not been established.
Governor Bago, while addressing journalists in Minna, said overcrowding and possible exposure to hazardous mining substances were being considered as potential causes.
“So probably they died of suffocation. Probably the second one is exposure to certain poisons or poisoning substances on the field,” Bago stated.
Medical, forensic, and biological teams have been deployed to collect samples, while autopsies are being expedited to determine the exact cause of death.
The governor emphasized the need for responsible mining practices, including protective gear and continuous public awareness campaigns.
“The death of 37 people is significant and should not be treated lightly. Even at times of war, if you kill 37 people, it is not a small number,” Bago said, stressing the urgency of investigations.
The Federal Government has suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and ordered a full probe into the incident.
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