The Niger State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew following protests over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the state.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the curfew during a press conference on Friday, directing that it take effect immediately after Juma’at prayers.
The development followed protests sparked by the deaths of the 37 suspected miners, who were reportedly arrested over alleged illegal mining activities.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026, after the suspects were arrested and taken into the custody of the Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC.
The Niger State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, had ordered an investigation into the deaths.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, the suspects arrested over alleged illegal mining were found dead while in NSCDC custody.
The state government imposed the curfew amid growing tension and protests over the incident, as authorities continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
