**Protests Erupt in Nigeria Following Deaths of 37 Miners in Custody**
Residents in Minna, the capital of Niger State in central Nigeria, have taken to the streets in protest after the shocking revelation that 37 detainees died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The protests erupted overnight following the discovery of the bodies, which were documented by Reuters in a ward at the General Hospital in Minna.
The detainees were reportedly held following a raid on suspected illegal gold mines in the Wushishi-Lukoto area that took place from September 15 to 16. The NSCDC initially suggested that the deaths might have been linked to a disease outbreak but later clarified that the exact cause of death had not yet been determined. Medical examinations are expected to provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.
In response to the incident, Nigeria's Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the immediate suspension of Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the commandant of the NSCDC in Niger State. The minister emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the matter, stating, “It is an unfortunate incident; however, a full investigation will be conducted while the commandant under whose watch this happened remains suspended.”
The situation has drawn significant public outcry, particularly from the families of the deceased. Shafa’atu Suleiman, the mother of one of the detainees named Abdullahi, shared her distress with reporters. She recounted visiting her son in a cramped cell and later learning of his death. Suleiman alleged that officials had denied relatives the opportunity to provide food to the detainees and demanded a ransom of 100,000 naira (approximately $75) for their release. “This is injustice. We will not forgive them,” she expressed, highlighting the emotional turmoil faced by the families involved.
The protests in Minna saw demonstrators, primarily youths, chanting slogans such as “Justice must be done.” Reports indicate that some protesters resorted to damaging vehicles in their expression of anger. By Friday morning, the atmosphere in the city had calmed, though a heavy security presence remained in place as authorities sought to prevent further unrest.
This tragic incident has reignited discussions regarding illegal mining operations in Nigeria, where the government has struggled for years to regulate thousands of informal mining sites. Authorities have cited environmental degradation and significant losses in government revenue as key concerns linked to unauthorized mining activities.
As the investigation into the deaths continues, the families of the deceased and the broader community are left grappling with the implications of this incident, demanding accountability and justice for those who lost their lives while in custody.