The Federal Government has constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.
The development follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive for a comprehensive investigation into the deaths, which occurred on September 17, 2026, after the detainees were arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining.
The exact cause of the deaths remains unclear, with authorities considering several possibilities as investigations and forensic examinations continue.
Committee to investigate circumstances surrounding deaths
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the committee would establish the identities of the deceased and examine their arrests, detention and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
The committee will also investigate possible responsibility, negligence, misconduct or complicity and recommend appropriate action, including compensation where applicable.
Tunji-Ojo warned that anyone who attempts to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the investigation would face consequences.
The committee is chaired by retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, Jonathan Kure, while Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, will serve as secretary.
Investigation follows conflicting accounts
The deaths have generated questions about the conditions under which the detainees were held. Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago previously said 67 people had been detained, with 37 dying in one cell.
A survivor also alleged that detainees struggled with heat and overcrowding and claimed a substance resembling perfume was sprayed inside the cell before people began collapsing. The allegation has not been independently established.
The committee has two weeks to complete its investigation and submit its report to the Minister of Interior.