Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has cancelled the All Progressives Congress political rally scheduled to hold in Minna on Saturday following the death of more than 30 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The governor also declared a three-day mourning period in honour of the victims and urged residents of the state to remain calm as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Bago announced the cancellation in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, on Thursday in Minna.
He described the incident as unfortunate and deeply saddening, while extending his condolences to the families and communities affected by the deaths.
According to the governor, the decision to suspend the APC rally was informed by the gravity of the incident and was also a mark of respect for the families of the deceased.
He assured residents that the circumstances surrounding the deaths would receive appropriate attention, while calling on them to remain calm and praying for the repose of the souls of the victims.
The NSCDC had earlier confirmed that some suspected illegal miners arrested in the state died while in its custody.
In a statement signed by the Niger State Commandant, Comdt. Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the corps said the suspects were arrested during operations conducted on September 15 and 16, 2026, and were found dead the following day.
The command attributed the deaths to a disease outbreak in the cell, but said the bodies had been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for further medical examination to establish the actual cause of death.
“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, in its renewed efforts to rid the state of illegal mining activities, conducted a “burst operation” on 15th and 16th September, 2026, leading to the arrest of suspected illegal miners and the recovery of exhibits.
“The operation yielded significant results, with scores of suspected illegal miners arrested and various exhibits recovered.”
The NSCDC appealed for calm as investigations into the incident continue, saying security agencies were working with the appropriate authorities to determine the cause of the deaths.
The statement added, “While the Corps, in synergy with sister security agencies, is on top of the situation, the Command appeals to the general public and the families of the deceased to remain calm and desist from any actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Niger State Command, remains fully committed to the enforcement of human rights and subscribes to international human rights charters, while remaining steadfast in the enforcement of its core mandates, including the protection of lives and property, as well as critical national assets and infrastructure, for the benefit of the Commonwealth.
“May the souls of the deceased rest in peace.”
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