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Thirty-seven people detained on suspicion of illegal gold mining have died in custody in Nigeria’s Niger State, authorities said. The incident has triggered public anger, protests in Minna and increased scrutiny of conditions at detention facilities.
The miners were detained earlier this week during a security operation against illegal gold mining in central-northern Nigeria. Several days later, reports emerged that dozens of those held had died at the facility. Authorities have given conflicting accounts of the cause of death.
Conflicting accounts over cause of death
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps initially said the deaths could be linked to an infectious disease. The agency said it was investigating the possibility that an infection had spread among the detainees.
However, relatives of the victims and survivors have questioned that explanation. They said no serious symptoms had been observed when relatives visited the facility. Survivors reportedly described severe overcrowding, intense heat and inadequate ventilation at the detention center.
According to relatives, detainees said people in the overcrowded cells were losing consciousness one after another, while emergency assistance arrived late. The accounts have increased calls for an independent investigation and the public release of its findings.
State governor launches investigation
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago described the incident as tragic and unacceptable and announced an official investigation. Disciplinary measures have been taken against senior officials linked to the facility.
The state commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has been suspended pending the investigation. Security agencies have been instructed to determine how the incident occurred and whether officials fulfilled their obligations toward the detainees.
The governor declared a period of mourning and suspended political campaign events planned ahead of upcoming elections. Officials said autopsies would play an important role in determining the exact cause of death.
Protests held in Minna
Residents protesting the incident took to the streets in Minna, the capital of Niger State. Relatives of the victims and members of local mining communities took part in the demonstrations. Protesters marched near government and security buildings, demanding accountability.
Security forces used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Demonstrators alleged that the detainees had died because of conditions at the facility and called for criminal proceedings against those responsible if negligence is confirmed.
Illegal mining remains a major challenge
The incident has also renewed attention on Nigeria’s campaign against illegal mining. Niger State has deposits of gold and other minerals, attracting thousands of small-scale miners to the region.
Officials say illegal mining is linked to smuggling networks, environmental damage and armed criminal groups. Security agencies regularly raid illegal mining camps in parts of the country, citing their impact on instability.
Human rights advocates say the deaths of the 37 detainees have highlighted broader concerns over detention conditions and legal procedures in Nigeria. As autopsies and other investigations are awaited, the authorities face growing pressure to provide clear answers to the victims’ families.
