Niger miners death in Minna drew a NANYD warning that parties and online commentators should wait for the federal inquiry, not campaign on it
On Monday, 21 September 2026, the National Association of Nigerian Youth in Development cautioned opposition parties against using the Niger miners death case in Minna for campaign material, and said the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps response should be allowed to run.
The statement was signed by NANYD national president Alhaji Bukura Ahmed, Ph.D. Thirty-seven miners died after arrests by the NSCDC Niger State Command on 15 and 16 September along the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered a full investigation.
Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi directed the Niger State commandant and key officers to step aside and report to national headquarters.
A new commandant has taken over in the state. The bodies are at General Hospital, Minna, for examination. The NSCDC has said claims about a specific disease await laboratory results.
“We are very disappointed that opposition political parties are using the demise of the youth to score political points and to campaign, instead of commending the administration for its commitment to unravelling the truth behind the shocking demise,” Alhaji Bukura Ahmed said. “This should not be a political play. Opposition parties can do better than what they are currently doing.”
Alhaji Bukura Ahmed also warned activists and social media commentators against claims that pre-empt the panel. “The government has set up a committee to investigate and get to the root of the matter. What we should do is support the government and all relevant security agencies to ensure justice is done and the truth comes to light, not making statements that can cause unrest at this time.”
On calls for Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi to resign or be sacked, Alhaji Bukura Ahmed said those demands ignored the command structure. “For those calling for the sack of CG Audi, they are oblivious of the truth and how the structure of command works. The CG has done nothing wrong. In fact, parading those involved is a sign that he is ready to get to the root of the matter.” NANYD pointed to an order that NSCDC flags fly at half-mast nationwide.
NANYD said it would comment again after the federal panel reports. The 37 bodies remain at General Hospital, Minna, for examination. The NSCDC has not confirmed a cause of death.
