The Niger State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew following protests triggered by the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the restriction after unrest broke out in parts of the state, with protesters expressing anger over the deaths and demanding answers from authorities.
The governor said the curfew was necessary to restore calm after reports of vandalism targeting government property, a bank, political party offices and private businesses during the protests.
The curfew took effect immediately after Friday prayers and was announced as security agencies moved to contain the unrest and prevent further destruction of property.
The protests followed the deaths of suspected illegal miners who were arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto area of Niger State.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation. Authorities have said forensic examinations, medical assessments and other inquiries are being conducted to determine what happened while the suspects were in custody.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps had launched an investigation into the incident, examining issues including the condition of the detainees when they were arrested, the conditions of their detention and the medical attention provided to them.
Following the incident, the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, was suspended, while the Federal Government announced that a full investigation would be conducted to establish the facts and determine whether anyone should be held responsible.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, also dispatched a team to investigate the deaths and assess the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The protests have attracted calls from different groups and individuals for transparency and accountability. However, authorities have cautioned against reaching conclusions before investigations are completed.
Residents of Niger State have been urged to remain calm and comply with the curfew order as security agencies work to restore normalcy.
The state government said the restriction was a temporary measure aimed at preventing further violence and protecting lives and property while investigations into the miners’ deaths continue.
The outcome of the various investigations is expected to provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the deaths and whether any individuals or institutions should face consequences.
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