Protests have erupted in parts of Minna, Niger State, following the reported deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The protests were reported in areas including Tunga, Maitumbi and Bosso Road, where some demonstrators allegedly destroyed campaign posters and damaged government property.
The development has increased tension in the state capital as residents demand clarification over the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Security personnel have been deployed to parts of Minna to monitor the situation and prevent further escalation as authorities work to restore calm.
The Niger State Government has constituted a committee of inquiry to investigate the deaths, while the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, ordered the Niger State Commandant to step aside pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also directed a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Following the minister’s directive, Audi ordered a transparent and unhindered investigation and directed the Niger State Commandant to report to the NSCDC headquarters in Abuja to appear before the panel of inquiry.
The Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation in the Niger Command were also directed to appear before the panel.
A new commandant has subsequently been directed to proceed to Niger State and assume command.
The NSCDC said the investigation would be conducted thoroughly and that any personnel found to have violated the law or established professional standards would face appropriate sanctions.
Authorities have appealed for calm as investigations continue into the deaths and the circumstances surrounding the protests.
