Niger State Governor, Umar Mohammed Bago, has imposed a 24-hour curfew across the state following protests and reported destruction of property triggered by the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Bago announced the curfew on Friday during a press conference in Minna, saying it would take effect immediately after the Friday congregational prayers.
The governor said the measure was necessary to prevent further escalation of the unrest after protesters allegedly vandalised government facilities, a bank, political party offices and private businesses.
According to Bago, several properties were damaged during the unrest, including vehicles and facilities belonging to the Niger State Transport Company.
He also listed Sterling Bank, political party offices and privately owned businesses among properties allegedly affected by the violence.
The governor said the situation had reached a point where restrictions were required to restore order and prevent further destruction.
“Vandals are taking over the street, and there’s need for us to curtail this thing so that we can have calm in the society,” Bago said.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies while authorities work to restore normalcy.
So, we call on Nigerlites, please, to exercise restraint and be patient,” the governor added.
The curfew followed protests sparked by the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who were being held by the NSCDC.
The suspects were reportedly arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State on September 15 and 16.
Bago had earlier confirmed the deaths and said forensic and medical examinations, including autopsies, were being conducted to determine what happened to the detainees.
The cause of the deaths has not yet been established.
Following the incident, the NSCDC constituted an investigative team to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The investigation is expected to examine the condition of the suspects when they were arrested, how long they remained in custody, the conditions under which they were detained and the medical attention provided to them.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and ordered a full investigation.
The Federal Government has said anyone found responsible will face consequences.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the government would not shield anyone found culpable, while urging the public not to prejudge the outcome of the investigation.
Former Vice President and 2027 African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has also called for accountability over the deaths.
Atiku said anyone found responsible through action, abuse or negligence should be held accountable after the investigation establishes the facts.
The development has heightened concerns over the treatment of suspects in custody and the enforcement of laws against illegal mining in Niger State.
For now, authorities are expected to focus on restoring calm across the state while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the 37 suspected miners.
