A troubling incident in Niger State has triggered swift government action, the Minister of Interior has suspended a top security commandant.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered the suspension following reports of deaths in custody, the victims were suspected illegal miners arrested during recent operations.
This NSCDC commandant suspension involves Niger State Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, he was removed from his post pending a full investigation.
The incident reportedly happened early Thursday in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto area of Minna, miners had been arrested days earlier during enforcement operations in the state.
Tunji-Ojo addressed the situation directly in an official statement, he called the incident deeply troubling and promised accountability.
“It is an unfortunate incident; however, a full-scale investigation will be conducted while the commandant under whose watch this happened remains suspended,” he said.
He stressed that protecting lives remains a top government priority. “We run a government whose ultimate priority is security of lives, and we have worked to stay true to this,” he added.
This NSCDC commandant suspension also affects several other top officers, they have been ordered to report to headquarters in Abuja.
Officers from operations, mining, legal, intelligence, and investigation units are included. All will face a panel of inquiry over the incident.
A new commandant has already been sent to take charge, this move ensures the Niger State Command continues functioning during the probe.
The NSCDC assured the public that the investigation will be thorough, officials warned that any wrongdoing will lead to serious consequences.
The Corps reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of those in custody, it stressed that its mandate must always follow due legal process.
The minister also expressed sympathy for those affected by the incident, he extended condolences to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the victims’ families.
