Following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Niger State, the Federal Government has pledged to ensure accountability.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, expressed condolences to the Niger State Government, the Wushishi community and the families of the deceased, while assuring that the circumstances surrounding the deaths would be thoroughly investigated.
The victims were among suspected illegal miners arrested by the NSCDC during enforcement operations conducted on September 15 and 16 around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto axis.
Idris said the investigation would establish the facts surrounding the deaths before responsibility is determined, adding that anyone found culpable would face appropriate action.
He stressed that protecting the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of Nigerians remains a responsibility of the Federal Government.
The investigation follows the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The NSCDC Commandant General has also ordered a comprehensive probe into the incident.
The investigation is expected to examine the condition of the detainees when they were arrested, their treatment in custody, the conditions under which they were held and the medical care provided to them.
Niger State Governor Umar Bago has confirmed the deaths of the 37 detainees, saying forensic and medical examinations, including autopsies, are being conducted to determine what caused the deaths.
The cause remains officially undetermined. Although the state NSCDC command initially cited a suspected disease outbreak, authorities say medical and laboratory examinations are required before a definitive conclusion can be reached.
The Federal Government says it will continue its campaign against illegal mining, which it identifies as a threat to national security, the economy and the environment. It, however, insists that enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with full respect for human dignity.
Idris has appealed for calm in Wushishi and other communities across Niger State, urging residents to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
The Federal Government has also expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Niger State, assuring that the circumstances surrounding the deaths will be established and appropriate action taken based on the findings.
