The Niger State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Minna, the state capital, following protests and rising tension over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the curfew on Friday, saying it would take effect immediately after Juma’at prayers and remain in force until further notice. Residents were directed to remain indoors and comply with security directives. (Channels Television)
The deaths followed NSCDC enforcement operations in M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of the state on 15 and 16 September, during which scores of suspected illegal miners were arrested.
According to the NSCDC, the detainees were found dead in the early hours of Thursday following what it described as a suspected disease outbreak. However, the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation. (TheCable)
The incident triggered protests in several parts of Minna, including Tunga, Maitumbi and Bosso Road, with demonstrators demanding justice for the deceased. Some government property, political party offices and private businesses were reportedly damaged during the unrest. (Channels Television)
Governor Bago said the curfew was necessary to prevent further destruction and restore calm in the state capital.
The state government has also established an investigative committee to determine what led to the deaths, while the federal government has deployed a high-powered team to investigate the incident. (Voice of Nigeria)
The Niger State Government has appealed to residents to remain calm and allow the investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Meanwhile, the federal government has suspended senior NSCDC officials in Niger State as investigations continue. (Reuters)
The cause of death has not yet been conclusively established, with authorities cautioning against drawing conclusions before forensic and investigative processes are
