Protesters Clash With Security Forces in Niger State Over Deaths of 37 Detainees

Tension rose in Minna, Niger State, on Friday, September 18, 2026, after protesters took to the streets over the deaths of 37 detainees held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The victims were reportedly arrested during raids on suspected illegal gold-mining sites in the Wushishi-Lukoto area, west of Minna, between September 15 and 16.
The detainees were later found dead in NSCDC custody on Thursday. The agency initially suggested that a possible disease outbreak might have caused the deaths. It later stated that the exact cause had not yet been established and would be determined through medical examinations.

The protests reportedly became violent, with some demonstrators attempting to set fire to government buildings. Reuters also reported that security forces fired live ammunition while trying to control the situation.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered the suspension of Niger State NSCDC Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, pending a full investigation.