Niger NSCDC Commandant removed after 30 illegal miners die mysteriously in custody, probe begins

The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has removed the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and ordered a full-scale investigation into the mysterious deaths of over 30 illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Niger State Command, following a directive by Interior Minister Tunji Ojo.

National Public Relations Officer Babawale Afolabi confirmed in a statement on Friday that the heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation had also been invited for questioning, while a new Commandant had been directed to immediately assume command of the Niger State operation.

The CG assured the Interior Minister that officers found to have acted contrary to law, established procedures or professional standards would face administrative, disciplinary and criminal sanctions as applicable.

“The NSCDC remains committed to upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of every person in its custody,” the statement read, adding that the corps would ensure its statutory mandate — including fighting illegal mining — is carried out strictly in accordance with the law.

The DAILY POST had earlier reported the mysterious deaths of more than 30 arrested illegal miners while in NSCDC custody in Niger State.