PRP Calls for Justice Over Miners' Deaths in Niger

The Peoples Redemption Party is demanding justice for the 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State. They want anyone responsible for these deaths to be prosecuted.

The party also criticized the ongoing captivity of residents in Dekara community, Borgu Local Government Area. These residents have been held by bandits since August 2026.

In a statement from Abuja on Saturday, the PRP National Publicity Secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, said these incidents show the government's failure to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.

Ishaq pointed out that the insecurity in the North-Central and North-West regions needs urgent attention. He warned that unchecked banditry, kidnapping, and other security issues could become a serious threat to national security.

He said, “The PRP condemns the tragic death of 37 miners who lost their lives while in NSCDC custody in Minna, Niger State.

“We demand the immediate establishment of an Independent Commission of Inquiry to determine the causes of this unfortunate incident and call for the prosecution of anyone found culpable.”

Ishaq also urged the government to work harder to free the kidnapped residents. He wants security personnel held accountable for not doing their jobs properly.

He called for a review of government policies to improve the welfare and security of Nigerians. He also asked authorities to step up efforts to restore peace in the affected areas.

The PRP’s call for action came just hours after the Federal Government set up a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the committee on Saturday. This followed President Bola Tinubu’s order for a thorough and clear investigation into the incident that happened on Thursday, September 17, 2026.

Tunji-Ojo also suspended 20 officers who were allegedly involved in the incident, including the Niger State NSCDC Commandant. This suspension will last until the investigation is complete.

The committee is expected to identify the deceased and look into the circumstances of their arrest, detention, and deaths. They will also find out about any negligence or misconduct.

There are conflicting reports about how the deaths occurred. The NSCDC claimed the deaths were due to a disease outbreak but did not identify the illness. Survivors said the detainees died from suffocation and dehydration in an overcrowded cell.

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, mentioned that early forensic findings showed foam mixed with bloodstains in some of the deceased's mouths. He also said there was peeling skin, suggesting possible lead poisoning.

Saturday PUNCH learned that the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and 21 other officers have been detained in Abuja in connection with the incident.