Yemi Obafemi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of several people who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
Tinubu said no Nigerian should lose their life while in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
The deaths reportedly occurred after the individuals were taken into custody following enforcement operations around Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna.
Expressing concern over the incident, the President described the deaths as a grave matter requiring urgent investigation and accountability.
He directed relevant authorities to establish what happened, including the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of those taken into custody, the conditions in which they were detained, the number of people held at the facility, the medical attention they received and the events that led to their deaths.
Tinubu stressed that being in government custody does not take away a person’s right to life, dignity and humane treatment.
He said any official found to have contributed to the deaths through action, abuse or negligence must be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The suspension of officers is only an administrative step and must not substitute for a proper determination of criminal responsibility where the evidence warrants prosecution,” the President said.
He also directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with all relevant investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with the process.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm among the affected families and communities.
“We must never allow the pursuit of one form of illegality to create another. The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” he said.
The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on September 18, 2026.
