President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners who were detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) following enforcement operations in Minna, Niger State.
The President gave the directive on Friday, expressing concern over the reported deaths of detainees arrested around the Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate.
Tinubu said the life of every Nigerian matters and stressed that no citizen should die in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
He said the Federal Government would continue its fight against illegal mining and other criminal activities but insisted that enforcement operations must be carried out in accordance with the law and with respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of detainees.
“The fact that these individuals were suspected of illegal mining does not in any way remove their right to life, dignity and humane treatment while in government custody,” the President said.
Tinubu directed the investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, the conditions under which they were held, the number of persons detained, the medical attention provided and the events leading to their deaths.
He further ordered that any official found to have contributed to the deaths through abuse, negligence or other actions should be arrested and prosecuted where the evidence supports criminal responsibility.
The President also cautioned that the suspension of officers involved would not be sufficient to determine criminal liability.
“The suspension of officers is only an administrative step and must not substitute for a proper determination of criminal responsibility where the evidence warrants prosecution,” he said.
Tinubu directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with all investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with the investigation.
He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm among affected families and communities, assuring them that the government would pursue the truth and take appropriate action based on credible evidence.
“We must never allow the pursuit of one form of illegality to create another. The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” the President said.
The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on September 18, 2026.
