The Niger State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Minna following protests over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the measure on Friday, September 18, 2026, directing residents to stay indoors from immediately after the Jumu’ah prayers. The order will remain in force until further notice.
The deceased were among suspects arrested during NSCDC operations against alleged illegal mining in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas on September 15 and 16. Their deaths were discovered on Thursday, September 17.
The incident sparked protests in Tunga, Maitumbi and Bosso Road, prompting the deployment of security personnel across the capital. Police reportedly used tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
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The cause of death remains undetermined. The NSCDC initially cited a suspected disease outbreak but said medical examinations were required to establish the cause. Autopsies and forensic examinations are now being conducted.
The Federal Government has ordered a probe, while Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, pending the investigation.
The state government has also constituted a committee of inquiry headed by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba and declared three days of mourning for the victims. An APC rally scheduled for Saturday in Minna was subsequently cancelled.
Bago urged residents to remain calm and obey the curfew while authorities work to restore order and determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.