By Spotlight African Reporters | Abuja
September 18, 2026
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has visited Niger State over the deaths of 37 suspected artisanal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), pledging a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Disu made the commitment on Friday during a condolence visit to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, at the Government House in Minna.
The IGP said the Nigeria Police Force would “leave no stone unturned” in determining what led to the deaths, describing the incident as tragic. He said he was in the state not only to condole with the government and people of Niger but also to visit the scene of the incident and conduct further investigations.
According to the IGP, deaths occurring in custody constitute a serious matter within the responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force, regardless of which security agency has custody of the deceased.
He assured residents that the Police would work with the NSCDC and the various committees of inquiry established by the Niger State Government and other authorities to establish what happened.
Disu also appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that the Police would ensure that the investigation is conducted without compromising the search for the truth.
Bago: Mining Suspended Across Niger State
Governor Bago thanked the IGP and his delegation for visiting the state and supporting efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The governor said the state government had suspended political activities in honour of the victims and was working with the Association of Miners of Niger State and the Ministry of Mineral Resources to identify the deceased and locate their families for proper condolence and support.
Bago also disclosed that all mining activities across Niger State had been temporarily suspended pending the outcome of investigations.
He explained that his administration would strengthen the regulation of mining activities by ensuring that miners are properly registered and organised under cooperatives so they can be effectively identified and monitored.
The governor further urged politicians and other stakeholders not to politicise the tragedy but to unite in finding answers and supporting the affected families.
The deaths have triggered multiple investigations, with the Niger State Government, Nigeria Police Force and federal authorities taking steps to establish the exact circumstances and cause of the deaths. The state government has also said forensic examinations and autopsies are being pursued.
From Spotlight African Reporters
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