‘A Costly Mistake’ — Suspended Niger NSCDC Commandant Says Deaths of 37 Miners Were Avoidable

Suberu Aniviye, the suspended Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has admitted that the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in custody could have been avoided.

Aniviye reportedly made the admission while testifying before a panel of inquiry investigating the deaths in Minna, the Niger State capital, according to the African Independent Television (AIT).

Describing the incident as a “costly mistake,” the suspended commandant reportedly apologised to the families of the deceased, expressing regret over the loss of lives.

The panel, chaired by Justice Mohammed Mohammed, is investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the suspected illegal miners while in custody.

Aniviye’s testimony comes amid efforts to establish what led to the deaths, determine whether there were lapses in the handling of the suspects and identify those who may bear responsibility.

The circumstances surrounding the incident and the specific findings of the panel have yet to be fully established publicly.

The inquiry is expected to help clarify the events leading to the deaths and determine whether any officials or personnel should face disciplinary or other appropriate consequences.