By Sandra Kenneth
The Federal Government has ordered the immediate suspension of Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), following the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in custody.
The government also directed a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatalities, which occurred after enforcement operations in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna.
The deceased were among several suspects arrested on September 15 and 16, 2026, during joint operations targeted at curbing illegal mining activities and safeguarding critical natural resources across the state.
The suspension follows an earlier directive by the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, who constituted a high-powered panel led by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation to probe the deaths.
Authorities confirmed that the remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital in Minna for comprehensive post-mortem examinations and laboratory testing to determine the official cause of death. The Corps cautioned against speculation regarding potential disease outbreaks prior to medical verification.
According to government officials, Aniviye’s suspension aims to ensure an unhindered administrative and criminal investigation. Meanwhile, health precautions have been instituted to protect personnel and manage the well-being of remaining detainees.
