Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of about 37 suspected illegal miners who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.
The governor made the disclosure during a media chat in Minna, where he described the incident as tragic and unacceptable and assured residents that the circumstances surrounding the deaths would be thoroughly investigated.
As part of efforts to ensure an impartial investigation, Bago disclosed that the NSCDC Commandant in Niger State and members of his team had been suspended.
The state government has also constituted a committee of inquiry, while relevant security agencies have commenced separate investigations into the incident.
Bago said the probe would determine exactly what happened to the detainees, insisting that the government would pursue the matter until the circumstances surrounding the deaths were established.
“There is no official root cause of these deaths yet. It is too early for anybody to draw a conclusion on the root causes,” the governor said.
According to him, forensic examinations, medical assessments and autopsies are being carried out as authorities work to establish the cause of death.
Possible factors being examined include overcrowding and suffocation within the detention facility, as well as exposure to hazardous substances allegedly linked to illegal mining activities.
The governor also revealed that the state government was compiling a register of those who died to identify their families and determine the appropriate support that could be provided.
Meanwhile, Bago has appealed to residents, particularly youths, to remain calm and refrain from violent protests or reprisals.
He warned that violence would not restore the lives lost and could lead to further casualties and destruction.
The governor also announced the suspension of activities at the illegal mining site in Ema Ushishi, citing concerns over the lack of adequate technology, safety equipment and protective gear among miners operating at the location.
Bago said the government would await the outcome of the investigations before deciding on further measures, while assuring the families of the deceased that they would be engaged throughout the process.
