Niger State miner deaths spark competing claims over toll and missing property

Abdulsalam Yakubu, a survivor of the deaths of suspected miners in NSCDC custody in Niger State, told the Justice Mohammed Mohammed Judicial Commission of Inquiry in Minna that operatives took two bottles of mined gold and 1.35 million naira from him during his arrest at a mining site in the Lokoto area of Bosso Local Government Area. He said the items were in his bag and have not been returned, adding that his working tools and other personal belongings also remain with the authorities. He appealed for their return because he needs them to earn a living.

Yakubu disputed the official death toll, claiming that 48 people died in custody rather than the 37 initially reported. He said he fled Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area after repeated armed bandit attacks forced residents to abandon their homes. Displacement left him and his family struggling to survive, and mining became one of the few ways to generate income. He said earnings from mining helped him provide for his elderly parents, who are also living in an internally displaced persons camp.

The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability has called for a transparent, impartial and credible investigation into the deaths of 33 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody. Its executive director, Comrade Patrick Onomuodeke, made the demand at a press conference and urged the Minister of Interior to address questions about the investigative panel’s proceedings and findings. He said the credibility of the report depends on the thoroughness, impartiality and fairness of the process.

CPTA raised concerns about committee member Deji Adeyanju, alleging that he attended physical meetings for about one week before joining virtually by Zoom while reportedly outside the country. The organisation called for clarification of his attendance record, access to evidence and level of participation in deliberations. It cautioned against drawing conclusions about possible external influence without credible evidence.

The group also questioned reports that the Niger State NSCDC Commandant acknowledged that clearance had not been obtained from either the Zonal Commandant or the corps’ national headquarters before the operation. CPTA said this raises questions about operational authorisation, compliance with procedures and the responsibility of officers involved. It called for clarification on whether the Zonal Commandant was invited to provide evidence or questioned about the operation.

The commission is examining accounts from survivors and other relevant parties to establish what happened before, during and after the arrests. Yakubu’s allegations are claims presented to the inquiry and will require examination alongside other evidence.