Tension In Minna As Youths Protest Deaths Of 37 Miners In NSCDC Custody

Properties worth millions of naira have been damaged in parts of Minna, Niger State, following protests over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC.

The protest, which began on Thursday night, intensified on Friday morning and spread to several parts of the state capital.

Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago had planned to visit the families of the deceased to commiserate with them but was unable to proceed due to the unrest.

The demonstrations began in Tunga and Maitumbi before spreading to Kpakungu, Bosso, Tudun Natsira and Berger areas.

Protesters reportedly blocked major roads, including the Flamingo Junction, while demanding justice over the deaths. Vehicles, public property and campaign materials were also damaged in some areas.

Security personnel, including policemen and soldiers, were deployed across the city to restore order. Tear gas was reportedly used as protesters confronted security operatives, while some unverified reports alleged that live ammunition was fired.

There were also unconfirmed reports that some youths were shot during the protest. A video circulating online appeared to show a youth with an injury to the face at the NSTA park.

The NSTA park was reportedly invaded by protesters who vandalised buses, including vehicles preparing to depart and others parked at the facility. Shops and traders’ goods around the park were also damaged, forcing passengers to flee the area.

Two banks located near the NSTA park, GTBank and Access Bank, were also reportedly attacked, while traders at Tunga Market hurriedly closed their shops as the situation deteriorated.

Along Bosso Road, protesters reportedly damaged the glass windows of a security post at the Bahago Sports Complex while attempting to gain access to the facility.

Posters bearing the governor’s image were also destroyed, while the Chanchaga Local Government APC secretariat, opposite Bahago Secondary School, was reportedly attacked.

Vehicles, windows, a security post, televisions and other property were reportedly damaged at the secretariat. The facility’s watchman was also said to have sustained injuries from stones and shattered glass.

The protests followed growing anger over the deaths of the suspected illegal miners while in NSCDC custody, with calls for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.