37 Miners’ Deaths: Probe Panel Requests Extra Two Weeks For Final Report

The committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State has asked the Federal Government for an additional two weeks to conclude its work.

Chairman of the committee, Jonathan Kure, who disclosed this on Tuesday, said the extension was necessary to enable the panel to obtain outstanding forensic and pathology reports and complete its assessment of evidence gathered during the investigation.  

Kure said the committee had made substantial progress, having visited the NSCDC facility and mining site linked to the incident, conducted autopsies and taken statements from NSCDC personnel, survivors, relatives of the deceased and other witnesses.

The panel has also collected documentary and forensic evidence as part of efforts to establish what led to the deaths and determine whether any individuals or institutions should be held accountable.

“We promised Nigerians a thorough job. Because of this, we have applied and sought for an extension of another two weeks, during which we hope that our report will be ready,” Kure said.

He stressed that the committee was determined to produce a report that would be thorough, credible and capable of withstanding public scrutiny.

According to him, the investigation has raised issues requiring further examination, including possible institutional breakdown, alleged overzealousness and the need for additional training for some NSCDC personnel.

Kure said the panel would use the extra two weeks to complete its engagements with relevant persons, analyse the evidence and receive the outstanding medical reports before submitting its final findings.

The Federal Government constituted the 10-member committee following reports that 37 persons arrested over alleged illegal mining died while in NSCDC custody in Niger State.

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had said the committee was established in accordance with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for a comprehensive, transparent and unhindered investigation into the incident.

The minister also ordered the immediate suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant and officers involved in arrest, investigation, legal, station and guard duties between September 15 and 17, 2026, pending the outcome of the probe.