Tinubu Orders Probe Into Deaths Of Illegal Mining Suspects In NSCDC Custody

Amarachi Ihesiulo

September 19, 2026
3 min read
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

The President directed that the circumstances surrounding the deaths be thoroughly investigated and that any official found to have acted unlawfully or violated the rights of the detainees should be held accountable.

Tinubu’s directive followed reports concerning the deaths of the suspects while they were being detained by the NSCDC in connection with alleged illegal mining activities.

The President stressed the importance of humane treatment of all persons in custody, regardless of the allegations against them.

He directed relevant authorities to establish what led to the deaths, determine whether established procedures were followed and identify any individuals whose actions or omissions may have contributed to the incident.

Tinubu also called for appropriate prosecution where evidence establishes criminal responsibility.

The development has renewed attention on the treatment of suspects held by security and law-enforcement agencies across the country.

While security agencies have the responsibility to investigate and prosecute suspected offenders, the administration maintained that such responsibilities must be carried out within the framework of the law and respect for human rights.

The President’s directive is expected to provide an independent assessment of the circumstances surrounding the deaths and clarify issues relating to the detention, treatment and medical condition of the affected suspects.

The NSCDC is among the agencies involved in enforcing laws relating to national security and the protection of critical national assets, including measures against illegal mining and other activities considered harmful to the economy and environment.

Illegal mining has remained a major concern for the Federal Government, with security agencies regularly carrying out operations against individuals and groups suspected of engaging in unauthorised mining activities.

However, the administration has repeatedly maintained that enforcement operations must comply with applicable laws.

The investigation ordered by the President is expected to determine the facts surrounding the incident and establish responsibility based on evidence.

The Presidency said accountability would be pursued where wrongdoing is established, while stressing the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of persons in custody.

The investigation is also expected to help address concerns over detention procedures and ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future.

Tinubu Orders Probe Into Deaths Of Illegal Mining Suspects In NSCDC Custody

Amarachi Ihesiulo

Amarachi Ihesiulo

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