By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has condoled with the government and people of Niger State over the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), assuring that the circumstances surrounding the incident will be thoroughly investigated.
Disu made the commitment on Friday, September 18, 2026, during a condolence visit to Niger State, where he was received by Governor Muhammad Umar Bago, alongside other dignitaries and heads of security agencies.
The IGP described the incident as a tragedy requiring urgent attention, stressing that deaths in lawful custody were a grave matter that could not be treated lightly.
He called for close collaboration between the Police, the NSCDC leadership in the state and the committee constituted by the Niger State Government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Disu assured the governor and families of the deceased that the Police would leave no stone unturned in establishing what led to the loss of lives, with the investigation to be conducted in accordance with the rule of law, due process, transparency and respect for human rights.
Responding, Governor Bago thanked the IGP for his prompt intervention and condolence visit, explaining that the deceased had been arrested a day earlier over suspected illegal mining activities before they were found dead in NSCDC custody.
The governor said the incident had triggered serious unrest in the state, adding that the government was taking necessary measures to ensure a seamless investigation.
According to him, forensic examinations and autopsies would be carried out to assist in determining the cause of death, while the state government would provide full support to the relevant security agencies.
Disu also appealed to residents, particularly the families of the deceased, to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that violence would only worsen the situation.
The Police said it remained committed to protecting lives and property, upholding the rights of persons in lawful custody and working with relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the deaths are properly established.
