President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The detainees were arrested during enforcement operations around the Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna.
In a statement issued on Friday by the President’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the reported deaths and said the circumstances surrounding the incident must be thoroughly investigated.
The President stressed that every Nigerian has a right to life and humane treatment, regardless of the allegations against them.
According to Tinubu, no person should lose their life while in government custody due to negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
He directed authorities to investigate the circumstances of the arrests, the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, the conditions in which they were held, the number of people detained at the facility, the medical attention provided and the events that led to their deaths.
Tinubu further warned that any official found to have contributed to the deaths through abuse, negligence or other unlawful conduct must be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He said the suspension of officers involved in the incident would only constitute an administrative measure and must not replace a proper investigation into possible criminal responsibility.
The President also directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with the process.
While reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and other criminal activities, Tinubu said enforcement agencies must operate within the law and respect the dignity and fundamental rights of people in their custody.
He appealed for calm among the affected families and communities, assuring them that the government would establish the truth and take appropriate action based on credible evidence.
“We must never allow the pursuit of one form of illegality to create another. The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” the President said.
Tinubu also expressed condolences to the families of those who died and prayed for the repose of their souls.
