Niger State Governor Umar Bago has imposed a 24-hour curfew following protests over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Bago announced the curfew on Friday, directing that it should take effect immediately after the Friday congregational prayers.
The decision followed protests and reported destruction of property in parts of the state.
Government facilities, a bank, political party offices and private businesses were reportedly vandalised during the unrest.
Speaking at a press conference, Bago said the curfew was necessary to restore order and prevent further destruction.
“Immediately after the Friday mosque, we are putting a 24-hour curfew here,” the governor said.
He listed the State Transport Company’s buses, Sterling Bank, political party offices and privately owned businesses among properties reportedly affected.
Bago said the situation had deteriorated, with vandals taking over some streets.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies and other authorities.
The protests were triggered by the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who were reportedly being held by the NSCDC.
The suspects were arrested during operations against illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State on September 15 and 16.
Bago had earlier confirmed the deaths, saying forensic examinations, medical assessments and autopsies were being conducted.
The exact circumstances surrounding the deaths have not yet been established.
The NSCDC has constituted an investigative team to determine what happened to the suspects while in custody.
The inquiry is expected to examine their condition when arrested, detention conditions, duration of custody and the medical attention provided to them.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye.
Tunji-Ojo ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
The Federal Government has said anyone found responsible for the deaths will be held accountable.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said there would be no protection for anyone found culpable.
He, however, urged Nigerians not to draw conclusions before the investigation is completed.
Former Vice President and 2027 African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has also demanded accountability.
Atiku said anyone found responsible through action, abuse or negligence should face the consequences.
The 24-hour curfew is aimed at containing the unrest and protecting lives and property while investigations into the miners’ deaths continue.
