RismadarVoice Reporters
September 18, 2026
Human rights organisation Global Rights has condemned the reported use of force by security personnel against protesters in Minna, Niger State, as demonstrations over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC) custody entered another day.
The organisation expressed concern over reports that security personnel deployed to contain the protests used tear gas and other force while dispersing demonstrators.
Reports from Minna confirmed the use of tear gas during the protests, while there were separate reports that shots were fired as security personnel confronted demonstrators. It was not immediately established whether live ammunition or anti-riot rounds were used.
Global Rights said security agencies have a responsibility to maintain public order but must exercise that authority proportionately and in accordance with constitutional protections for life and peaceful assembly.
The rights group called for an immediate investigation into reports concerning the use of live ammunition and demanded accountability if any unlawful conduct by security personnel is established.
It also urged authorities to ensure that relatives of the deceased and citizens seeking answers over the custody deaths can pursue justice without intimidation or retaliation.
PROTESTS FOLLOW 37 CUSTODY DEATHS
The unrest followed the deaths of 37 people detained on suspicion of illegal mining after enforcement operations in Niger State.
The exact cause of the deaths has not been officially established, with multiple investigations now underway. President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation covering the arrests, detention conditions, number of people held, medical attention provided and circumstances leading to the deaths.
Tinubu said suspected involvement in illegal mining did not remove the detainees’ rights to life, dignity and humane treatment, adding that any official found through credible evidence to have contributed to the deaths through action, abuse or negligence should face prosecution.
BAGO IMPOSES 24-HOUR CURFEW
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has meanwhile imposed a 24-hour curfew across Minna, effective after Friday’s Jumu’ah prayers, following unrest and reported destruction of public and private property.
The governor said the restriction was necessary to restore order and prevent further escalation, while appealing to residents to remain calm as investigations continue.
Security agencies have been directed to enforce the curfew and protect lives and property across the state capital.
The police, NSCDC, Federal Government and Niger State authorities are conducting or participating in investigations into different aspects of the incident, including the circumstances surrounding the custody deaths and the unrest that followed.
