Suspended NSCDC commandant Suberu Aniviye apologizes for detainee deaths during an inquiry in Minna, Niger State.
The suspended Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Suberu Aniviye, has admitted to a costly mistake regarding the deaths of detainees in custody, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
The tragic incident involved suspected illegal miners who were detained following a security operation in Minna, Niger State, sparking a high-profile judicial investigation to uncover accountability and systemic failures within the security unit.
Appearing before the Justice Muhammad Muhammad Commission of Inquiry, Aniviye expressed deep regret, stating that the fatalities might have been avoided and offering a formal apology to the grieving families and the state government.
Investigation into NSCDC detention facility deaths
The judicial commission sitting in Minna is actively examining the circumstances surrounding the deaths of suspected illegal miners who died while held in custody by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in September 2026.
Suberu Aniviye detailed his timeline as the state commandant, noting that he assumed office on August 25, 2025, and held the leadership position until September 18, 2026, amid growing community concerns over illegal mining activities.
Mining marshal unit raid in Minna
The operation originated from residents near the M. I. Wushishi Housing Estate complaining about disturbances from mining, prompting Aniviye to inspect the location and instruct Assistant Commandant Joha Achagwa to address the issue.
This directive led the Mining Marshal Unit to arrest several suspected illegal miners on the evening of September 16, 2026, though tragic events unfolded before the scheduled court arraignment on September 17.
Legal advice and medical testimony
Suspended head of the legal unit, Stephen Tsado, testified that he identified minors among the detainees and recommended releasing them to their parents on bail, although his professional advice was ultimately unheeded.
Meanwhile, medical personnel raised further questions as nurse Maryam Etang reported a coughing detainee and expressed shock at finding Emeka Emmanuel among the deceased, despite him not being part of the initial mining raid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Suberu Aniviye?
Suberu Aniviye is the suspended Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps who appeared before a judicial commission regarding detainee deaths.
What caused the inquiry in Niger State?
The Justice Muhammad Muhammad Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate the deaths of suspected illegal miners held in NSCDC custody in Minna.
Were minors among the detainees?
Yes, Stephen Tsado, the suspended head of the NSCDC legal unit, identified minors among the arrested individuals and advised releasing them on bail.
Who is Emeka Emmanuel in this case?
Emeka Emmanuel was a man found dead among the detainees whose presence in the facility sparked questions, as a nurse testified he was not in the original mining raid.
