‘Sanctity of Human Life Is Non-Negotiable’ - Tinubu Orders Probe Into 37 Miners’ Deaths

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna, Niger State.

The President gave the directive on Friday, September 18, 2026, following reports of the deaths of the suspects who were detained during enforcement operations against illegal mining activities in the state.

The operations were carried out around the Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna, Niger State.

Tinubu, in a statement, said he was deeply concerned by the reported deaths and directed that the circumstances surrounding them be investigated urgently and thoroughly.

“The life of every Nigerian matters,” the President said, stressing that no citizen should lose their life while in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.

The NSCDC had earlier confirmed the deaths of some suspected illegal miners in its custody and said the exact cause of death was yet to be established. The Corps said medical examinations would be conducted to determine the cause. Reports subsequently put the number of deaths at 37.

Tinubu stressed that the fact that the deceased were suspected of illegal mining did not remove their right to life, dignity and humane treatment.

He directed the investigation to establish the circumstances of the arrests, the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, the conditions under which they were held, the number of people detained at the facility, the medical attention provided to them and the events leading to their deaths.

The President further directed that any official found by the investigation to have contributed to the deaths through action, abuse or negligence should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

“There must be accountability,” he said.

Tinubu also said the suspension of officers, where applicable, would only be an administrative measure and should not replace a proper determination of criminal responsibility where evidence warrants prosecution.

He directed the Ministry of Interior and the leadership of the NSCDC to cooperate fully with all relevant investigative authorities and warned against any attempt by officials to interfere with the investigation.

The President reiterated that the Federal Government would continue its campaign against illegal mining and other criminal activities but said such operations must be conducted within the law and with full respect for the rights and dignity of persons taken into custody.

He also extended his condolences to the families of those who died and appealed for calm among the affected families and communities.

Tinubu said 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. Government must enforce the law firmly, but government itself must obey the law,” he said.

“The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable.”