The Niger State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has expressed sadness over the reported death of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.

In a statement issued on Saturday, September 19, 2026, and signed by its Secretary, Aliyu Jibo Garba, the chapter condoled with the Niger State Government, the people of the state and, particularly, families of the deceased.

The NIPR said the circumstances surrounding the deaths remained subject to investigation, but described the loss of 37 lives in custody as deeply disturbing and requiring transparency, accountability and institutional responsibility.

The institute also expressed concern over the reported handling and communication of the incident, noting that it had contributed to public anger, protests and disturbances in parts of Minna.

It commended the Niger State Government for measures taken to restore order and facilitate investigations, while appealing to youths, community leaders and members of the public to remain calm.

“Anger is understandable; violence, however, cannot bring back the deceased or deliver justice,” the statement said.

The NIPR called for a thorough, independent, transparent and expeditious investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine responsibility.

It urged the federal and state governments to ensure that anyone found culpable is appropriately sanctioned in accordance with the law.

The chapter also called for compensation and necessary support for the bereaved families, stressing that such measures would help restore public confidence and social cohesion.

The NIPR cautioned against the spread of unverified information and inflammatory narratives, urging the media and the public to allow investigations to establish the facts.

“The people of Niger State deserve truth. The bereaved families deserve justice. And the state deserves peace,” the statement added.

The institute further called for stronger custodial safeguards and improved accountability within security and justice institutions to prevent a recurrence.