By Opeyemi Adelakun
The Federal Government has promised to take appropriate action against anyone found responsible for the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on Friday, saying the government would not interfere with the investigation or protect anyone found culpable.
Idris said the circumstances surrounding the deaths demanded a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation before conclusions could be reached.
“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,” he said.
The suspected illegal miners were arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State on September 15 and 16.
The minister said the government had a duty to protect the lives and fundamental rights of Nigerians, regardless of the circumstances in which they came into contact with law enforcement agencies.
His statement came after Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and ordered a full investigation into the incident.
Idris said the suspension reflected the seriousness attached to the deaths and would allow the investigation to proceed without prejudice.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter,” he said.
“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.”
Niger State Governor Umar Bago has confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners died while in NSCDC custody.
Forensic examinations, medical examinations and autopsies are being conducted to determine the cause of the deaths, which has not yet been established.
The NSCDC has also constituted an investigative team to examine the condition of the suspects when they were arrested, their period in custody, the conditions under which they were detained and the medical attention they received.
Former Vice President and 2027 ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has also called for accountability, saying anyone found responsible through “action, abuse or negligence” should be held accountable.
Idris said the Federal Government remained committed to tackling illegal mining because of its implications for national security, the economy and the environment.
He, however, stressed that enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
The minister appealed for calm in Wushishi and other parts of Niger State, urging residents and other concerned parties to allow the investigation to run its course.
He also expressed the Federal Government’s condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State.
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