President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The incident followed enforcement operations conducted around the Lt. General Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate and other locations in the Minna area.
Niger State authorities have confirmed that 37 suspected illegal miners died in custody, while the NSCDC initially said the deaths followed a suspected disease outbreak. Authorities have said medical and forensic examinations are being conducted to establish the actual cause of death.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said the life of every Nigerian matters and that no citizen should lose their life while in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
The President stressed that while the Federal Government remains committed to combating illegal mining and other criminal activities, enforcement operations must be carried out within the law and with respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of persons in custody.
President Tinubu further directed that where the investigation establishes that any official contributed to the deaths through action, abuse or negligence, such an officer should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Federal Government has also suspended the NSCDC Commandant in Niger State pending investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The President directed the relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation is comprehensive, transparent and unhindered.
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