The Federal Government has suspended the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and ordered a full investigation into the deaths of some suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in the state.
The suspension was ordered by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Friday, September 18, 2026, following reports of deaths involving suspected illegal miners in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna.
The affected suspects were reportedly arrested during enforcement operations conducted in parts of Niger State on September 15 and 16, as authorities intensified efforts to curb illegal mining activities.
In a statement signed by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alao Babatunde, the Ministry of Interior said the Federal Government had directed a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
“It is an unfortunate incident, however, a full investigation will be conducted while the commandant under whose watch this happened remains suspended,” Tunji-Ojo said.
The Minister stressed that the protection of lives remained the government’s priority, adding that the authorities would ensure the circumstances surrounding the incident were thoroughly investigated.
He also urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding while the investigation is ongoing to allow for a transparent process.
Tunji-Ojo commiserated with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the families and relatives of those who died.
The development comes amid heightened enforcement against illegal mining activities in Niger State. The investigation is expected to establish what led to the deaths of the arrested suspects and determine whether any officials or other persons bear responsibility for the incident.