Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
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 appropriate sanctions after ongoing investigations are concluded.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance on Friday while extending condolences to the Niger State Government, the Wushishi community and families affected by the tragedy.
The miners were arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining activities in the Wushishi and Lukoto areas of the state before the deaths were recorded in custody.
Idris said the circumstances surrounding the incident required a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation, stressing that the government would establish the facts before determining responsibility.
“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.
According to the minister, the Federal Government considers the protection of the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of citizens a core responsibility and has already taken steps to uncover what transpired.
He noted that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and directed a full investigation into the incident.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter.
“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.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and other unlawful activities, the minister said security operations must always be conducted within the bounds of the law and with respect for human life.
Governor Umar Bago had confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners died in custody, adding that forensic examinations, medical tests and autopsies were underway to determine the cause of death.
The NSCDC has also constituted an investigative team to examine the condition of the suspects at the time of arrest, the circumstances of their detention and the medical attention provided while in custody. Authorities say the cause of the deaths has not yet been established.
Idris appealed for calm among residents and stakeholders, assuring the public that the Federal Government remained committed to uncovering the facts surrounding the incident and ensuring justice where necessary.
He also expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased and prayed for strength for those affected by the tragedy.
