Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has arrived at the Niger State Government House in Minna following the reported deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Tunji-Ojo arrived in Minna on Friday and met with Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, over the incident.
The Minister is also expected to visit the detention facility where the suspected miners were held before their deaths.
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The visit comes hours after Tunji-Ojo ordered the immediate suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and directed a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The Minister described the incident as unfortunate and said the Government would establish what happened.
He also urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding while the investigation is ongoing.
The deaths have generated concern, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) calling for an independent and transparent investigation, including autopsies and the release of the identities and detention records of the deceased.
Further details are expected after the Minister’s visit to the detention facility and his discussions with State authorities.