24-hour curfew imposed in Minna over deaths of miners in NSCDC custody.

The Niger State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Minna, the state capital, following rising tension over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The curfew is aimed at dousing tension and maintaining peace and public order in the state capital as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The development comes amid protest in the city with angry youth blocking many part of the town.

There have been multiple investigations into the incident, including a probe ordered by President Bola Tinubu and an investigative committee constituted by the Niger State Government.

Security agencies have been urged to ensure the enforcement of the curfew while protecting lives and property and allowing the investigation into the deaths to proceed without disruption.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc (+), NPM, has arrived at the Niger State Government House in Minna over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The IGP was received by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, during the visit, where he commiserated with the state government and the families affected by the incident.

Disu assured the governor of a thorough, transparent and comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine what led to the loss of lives while the suspects were in government custody.

The visit comes amid growing concern over the incident, with President Bola Tinubu ordering a full and transparent investigation and warning that the Federal Government would not tolerate deaths resulting from official negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.

The Niger State Government has also constituted a Committee of Inquiry, while the NSCDC Commandant General has suspended the Niger State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and members of his team pending investigations.

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

A renowned industrialist, Dr Kamoru Ibitoye Yusuf, has felicitated Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on his turbaning as Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate, describing the traditional title as a worthy recognition of his selfless service and humility.

In his congratulatory message, the Industrialist, who is the Group Managing Director of Kam Holding Limited, commended the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, for finding the Governor worthy of the covetous title, adding that he had witnessed how AbdulRazaq administration’s dedication to peace, infrastructure, and enterprise have created an environment where business and community life co-exist.

Yusuf recalled that the traditional title is reserved for true defenders and leaders of the people, noting that Governor AbdulRazaq has exemplified what it requires to be conferred with the title.

While appreciating the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, for gracing the conferment ceremony, the industrialist said the VP’s presence underscores the federal government’s goodwill toward Kwara.

“It gives me immense personal joy and pride to extend my warmest congratulations to you on your royal turbaning as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari (CFR), on this Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

“This historic title is a fitting recognition of your selfless service, humility, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Kwara State. As an individual operating closely within Kwara’s industrial landscape and beyond through our globally recognised company, KAM Holding Ltd, I have witnessed firsthand how your administration’s dedication to peace, infrastructure, and enterprise has created an environment where business and community life can thrive together.

“The title of Sardauna is reserved for true defenders and leaders of the people, and you have proven to be just that.

“I also take this opportunity to warmly welcome His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima (GCON), who honours our state by representing His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), at this grand event. Your presence in Ilorin, Vice President Shettima, underscores the federal government’s goodwill toward our state and adds great prestige to this milestone,” the congratulatory message read in part.