The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that anyone found responsible for the deaths of suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State will face accountability.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance in a statement on Friday while expressing condolences to the Niger State Government, the Wushishi community and the families of the deceased.
The suspected illegal miners were arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state on September 15 and 16.
Idris said the circumstances surrounding the deaths required a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation, adding that the government must first establish the facts before determining responsibility.
He stressed that no one found culpable would be protected, while cautioning against reaching conclusions before the investigation was completed.
The minister said the Federal Government considered the protection of Nigerians’ lives, dignity and fundamental rights a key responsibility.
He noted that immediate steps had been taken following the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also ordered a full investigation into the incident.
According to Idris, the action by the Interior Minister reflected the seriousness with which the government viewed the deaths.
He said the investigation would determine what happened and that appropriate action would be taken based on its findings.
The minister maintained that while the government remained committed to tackling illegal mining and other activities threatening national security, the enforcement of such laws must be carried out within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, had confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners died while in NSCDC custody. He said forensic and medical examinations, including autopsies, were being conducted to determine the cause of death.
The NSCDC has also constituted an investigative team to examine the condition of the suspects when they were arrested, their time in custody, detention conditions and the medical attention provided to them.
The cause of the deaths has yet to be established.
Meanwhile, former Vice President and 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has called for accountability, saying anyone found responsible through action, abuse or negligence should be held accountable.
Atiku also called for an independent, thorough and transparent investigation, stressing that the families of the deceased deserved the truth and justice.
Idris appealed for calm in Wushishi and other parts of Niger State, urging residents and other stakeholders to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
He assured the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State that the Federal Government shared in their grief and remained committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
