The Federal Government’s independent committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, has requested an additional two weeks to complete its investigation.

The committee, chaired by retired Department of State Services (DSS) Deputy Director-General Jonathan Kure, was initially expected to submit its report on October 7, 2026. It is now seeking an extension until October 21.

Kure disclosed this at a press briefing on Tuesday, explaining that the panel had made significant progress but needed more time to review the large volume of evidence and testimonies gathered.

The committee has visited the NSCDC custody facility and the site of the incident, conducted autopsies, and interviewed NSCDC personnel, survivors, families of the deceased and other witnesses.

It is also awaiting forensic and pathology reports that could help establish the causes and circumstances of the deaths.

Kure said preliminary issues emerging from the investigation included institutional gaps and alleged overzealousness by some officers. However, he cautioned against drawing final conclusions while the investigation remains ongoing.

He said the extension would allow the committee to give all persons implicated in the incident, including suspended officers, an opportunity to respond before final recommendations are made.

The Federal Government has approved the requested two-week extension, with the committee promising that its final report will be thorough, credible and capable of withstanding public scrutiny.

The 37 suspected illegal miners died while in NSCDC custody in Minna in September, prompting President Bola Tinubu to direct a comprehensive investigation into the incident.