The Federal Government has suspended the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, following the reported deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in the state.
The suspension was ordered by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo on Friday, September 18, 2026, after reports emerged that some of the suspects died following operations conducted on September 15 and 16 around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna.
The Ministry of Interior, in a statement signed by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alao Babatunde, said a full investigation had been ordered 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 said the protection of lives remained the government’s priority and assured that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated.
He appealed to members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding while the investigation is conducted.
Tunji-Ojo also commiserated with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the families and relatives of those who died.
The incident comes amid intensified enforcement against illegal mining activities in Niger State. The investigation is expected to determine what led to the deaths and whether any officials or other persons may bear responsibility.
