…Police launch probe; Gov Bago suspends political rallies; NSCDC blames disease outbreak
By Achile Danjuma
What began as an enforcement operation against illegal mining in Niger State has exploded into a full-blown crisis, leaving no fewer than 37 detainees dead in Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) custody as of yesterday, September 17, 2026, and plunging Wushishi and Lukoto communities into chaos.
The NSCDC had arrested the persons over alleged illegal mining and taken them into detention. By yesterday, about 37 of them were reported dead.
The deaths have sparked outrage across Niger State. Since the incident, youths have trooped out in their numbers, protesting and demanding the release of the remaining detainees. The protesters, who described those still held as captives, have vowed not to back down until every one of them is freed.
As at the time of filing this report, Wushishi and Lukoto were said to be ravaged by chaos. A video clip seen by our correspondent showed gunshots ringing out between protesting youths and security personnel. Residents were said to be scampering for safety as tension escalated by the minute.
Meanwhile, the police have swung into action to investigate the deaths of the 37 persons.
Governor Umar Bago has cancelled all his political rallies for the meantime to mourn those who died.
In an official statement, the NSCDC claimed that an outbreak of disease caused the deaths of the 37 persons. The claim could not be independently verified as of press time, and no medical report had been made public.