Atiku demands probe into deaths of suspected miners in NSCDC custody
by Adenle Ahmed Abiola · The Eagle OnlineFormer Vice President and 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly demanded an independent, thorough, and transparent investigation into the tragic deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
Available information indicated that the suspected illegal miners were arrested by NSCDC operatives during enforcement operations on September 15 and 16 around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State.
On Thursday, September 17, 2026, the suspects were found dead while under detention.
The NSCDC initially said some of the detainees were found dead in the early hours of Thursday following a suspected disease outbreak.
Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, later confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners had died in custody.
He said forensic examinations, medical examinations and autopsies were being conducted to establish the cause of death.
Reacting to the development in a statement posted on X on Friday, Atiku said the victims were entitled to protection and dignity while in government custody, regardless of the allegations against them.
He commended the Federal Government for suspending the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and ordering an investigation into the incident.
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According to him, however, the suspension should only be the beginning of efforts to establish what led to the deaths and ensure accountability.
“The investigation must be independent, thorough and transparent, and its findings must be made public,” Atiku said.
He added that anyone found responsible through “action, abuse or negligence” should be held fully accountable.
Atiku also said the families of the deceased deserved more than condolences, stressing that they should be provided with the truth and justice.
“The families of the deceased deserve more than condolences. They deserve the truth. They deserve justice. And Nigerians deserve the assurance that custody by the state will never become a death sentence,” he said.
Atiku expressed sympathy with the families of the deceased and called for the truth to be established without delay.
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