Miners’ Death: Niger lifts Minna curfew

The Niger State Government has lifted the 24-hour curfew imposed on Minna, the state capital, following unrest triggered by the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The curfew was lifted, effective from Monday, according to a statement issued on Sunday by Bologi Ibrahim, chief press secretary to Governor Mohammed Bago.

Mr Bago announced the decision shortly after attending a three-day special prayer session for the deceased miners.

The governor urged residents of the state to remain law-abiding and responsible as the government continues to work towards improving their welfare.

It could be recalled that the state government imposed the 24-hour curfew on 18 September after protests and unrest erupted in Minna following the deaths of the suspected miners in NSCDC custody.

The deceased were among scores of people arrested during NSCDC operations targeting illegal mining activities around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto area of Minna on 15 September and 16 September.

The NSCDC later confirmed that some of the detainees died in the early hours of 17 September.

The Corps initially said the deaths followed a suspected disease outbreak, but noted that the actual cause had not been conclusively established.

The deaths triggered protests in parts of Minna, with residents demanding answers and justice for the deceased.

Reports said the unrest was accompanied by attacks and destruction of public and private property, prompting the state government to impose the curfew to prevent further escalation and restore public order.

Governor Bago also cancelled an APC rally scheduled for Minna and ordered investigations into the incident. The state government also suspended mining activities across Niger State.

The curfew came as the Federal Government ordered a full investigation into the deaths.

President Bola Tinubu said the investigation should establish the circumstances surrounding the arrests, detention conditions, medical attention provided to the detainees and the events that led to their deaths.

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The state government had also declared three days of mourning for the victims, while Governor Bago called on residents, particularly youths, to remain calm and avoid violence.

With the lifting of the curfew, residents of Minna are expected to resume normal activities, while investigations into the deaths continue.