A federal investigative panel has concluded that asphyxiation was the cause of death for 37 suspected illegal miners who died while detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State. The findings were presented to Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo on October 27, 2026, by the committee's chairman, Jonathan Kure.

The panel, which consisted of ten members, conducted a thorough investigation that included autopsies, inspections of the detention facility, and the collection of forensic evidence and witness statements. Kure emphasized that the investigation revealed significant institutional gaps within the NSCDC and highlighted the overzealousness of some officers involved in the arrests.

The miners were detained during operations conducted on September 15 and 16, 2026, around the Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna. Following their deaths, NSCDC Commandant Suberu Aniviye initially attributed the fatalities to a suspected outbreak of disease. However, the federal government ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, leading to the formation of the panel on September 19.

In response to the findings, Minister Tunji-Ojo has suspended the commandant of the Niger State NSCDC and announced that 21 officers are also under suspension pending further investigation. The minister has called for a full and transparent probe into the incident, as directed by President Bola Tinubu.

The committee's investigation involved gathering testimonies from NSCDC personnel, survivors, and the families of those who died. Kure noted that the panel's findings underscored the need for greater professionalism in handling cases involving detainees, particularly in situations that can lead to life-threatening conditions.

In light of the tragedy, the National Association of Nigerian Youth in Development (NANYD) has commended NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi for his management of the situation, while also criticizing political opponents for allegedly exploiting the miners' deaths for political gain. The panel's report serves as a crucial step in addressing the systemic issues within the NSCDC and ensuring accountability for the tragic loss of life in custody.