The Federal Government has expressed condolences to the families of suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed the government’s sympathy to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Wushishi community and the families of the deceased.
The miners were arrested during enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state.
Idris said the circumstances surrounding the deaths required a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation, stressing that the protection of Nigerians’ lives, dignity and fundamental rights remained a responsibility of the Federal Government.
He noted that immediate steps had already been taken to establish the facts, including the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also ordered a full investigation.
“The investigation will be allowed to establish exactly what happened, and the Government assures Nigerians that appropriate action will be taken based on its findings,” Idris said.
The minister further assured that no one found culpable would be shielded from accountability, while cautioning against prejudging the outcome of the investigation.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation,” he said.
He stressed that while the government remained committed to tackling illegal mining and other unlawful activities, enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
Idris also appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger State, urging residents and other concerned parties to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
Niger State Governor Umar Bago has confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners died in NSCDC custody. He said forensic examinations, medical examinations and autopsies were underway to establish the scientific cause of the deaths.