The Federal Government has vowed that anyone found responsible for the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) will face justice.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this on Friday while expressing the government’s condolences to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, the people of the state, traditional leaders, residents of Wushishi and, most importantly, the families and loved ones of the deceased.
Idris assured Nigerians that the Federal Government places a high value on the life of every citizen and would ensure that the circumstances surrounding the deaths are thoroughly, transparently and impartially investigated.
According to the minister, immediate measures have already been taken to establish what led to the deaths. These include the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as well as the commencement of a full-scale investigation.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter,” Idris said.
He added that the investigation would be allowed to determine exactly what happened and assured Nigerians that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings.
The Information Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and other unlawful activities capable of threatening national security, economic resources and the environment.
However, he stressed that enforcement operations must always be carried out within the provisions of the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation. The Government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts are established and that justice is served,” Idris said.
The development follows the death of 37 suspected illegal miners while in NSCDC custody in Niger State.
The NSCDC had initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak. However, its national headquarters later clarified that the exact cause of death had not been conclusively established and would require medical and laboratory confirmation.
Idris appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger State, urging residents and other stakeholders to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
He also prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked Almighty Allah to grant their families, the Wushishi community and the people of Niger State the strength to bear the loss.