By Tunji Braimoh Abuja

A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) has commended the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for ordering a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.The coalition, led by Stand Up Nigeria (SUN), described the swift response by the NSCDC leadership as a demonstration of accountability, transparency and respect for human rights. The group noted that the decision to launch an independent investigation reflects the Corps’ commitment to upholding professional standards and ensuring justice.In a statement issued on Friday, the National President of SUN, Sunny Attah, said Prof. Audi’s prompt intervention was a responsible step towards uncovering the facts surrounding the unfortunate incident. He stressed that a thorough and impartial investigation would help strengthen public confidence in the nation’s security institutions.The coalition also welcomed the directive by the NSCDC Commandant General asking the Niger State Commandant to step aside pending the outcome of the investigation. According to the group, the measure will help guarantee an open, transparent and credible inquiry free from undue influence.”We commend the Commandant General for his decisive action and commitment to ensuring that the circumstances surrounding the deaths are fully investigated. This demonstrates leadership and a willingness to allow due process to take its course,” the coalition stated.The CSOs urged Nigerians and members of the international community to exercise restraint and allow investigators to complete their work before drawing conclusions. They emphasised that public discourse on the incident should be guided by verified facts rather than speculation.The coalition further disclosed that civil society groups across the country are closely monitoring developments and will review the findings of the investigation once they are made public. It maintained that transparency and accountability remain essential in building trust between security agencies and the citizens they serve.The NSCDC had earlier confirmed the deaths of some suspected illegal miners arrested during operations conducted by its Niger State Command on September 15 and 16, 2026, in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto axis of the state.Following reports of the deaths, Prof. Audi constituted a high powered investigative panel headed by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation. The panel was mandated to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and establish the facts through a professional and unbiased process.According to the Corps, the investigation will examine the condition of the suspects at the time of arrest, the duration of their detention, conditions of custody, medical attention provided and all other relevant factors connected to the case.The NSCDC also disclosed that the remains of the deceased had been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examinations and other forensic procedures aimed at determining the actual cause of death.The Corps cautioned members of the public against speculating on reports linking the deaths to any particular illness, stressing that only the outcome of medical and laboratory examinations can establish the cause of death with certainty.While expressing condolences to the families of the deceased, the NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and pledged to make the findings of the investigation public. The civil society coalition, on its part, called for a thorough and impartial probe, insisting that anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with the law. :::writing