President Bola Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State.
Drivetvnews gathered that the President directed that any official found to have contributed to the deaths through negligence, abuse or other misconduct should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Tinubu’s position was contained in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
He described the incident as a serious matter requiring urgent investigation and accountability, stressing that every Nigerian has a right to life and humane treatment while in government custody.
The President said the government would continue its fight against illegal mining and other criminal activities but insisted that enforcement agencies must operate within the law and respect the rights of detainees.
He ordered investigators to examine the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of the suspects when they were detained, the conditions at the facility, the number of detainees, medical attention provided and the events that preceded their deaths.
Tinubu also warned that suspending officers involved in the incident would not replace a proper investigation into possible criminal responsibility.
The Ministry of Interior and NSCDC leadership were directed to cooperate with investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with the process.
The deaths followed the arrest of suspected illegal miners during enforcement operations around the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State on September 15 and 16. Governor Umar Bago later confirmed that 37 suspects had died in NSCDC custody.
The NSCDC constituted an investigative team, while Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, pending investigation.
The Federal Government said anyone found culpable would not be protected, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also called for an independent investigation into the deaths.
Following protests and property damage linked to the incident, Bago imposed a 24-hour curfew across Niger State.
Tinubu appealed for calm among affected families and communities, saying the government would establish the facts and take appropriate action based on credible evidence.
He stressed that efforts to enforce laws against illegal mining must not result in violations of other laws or the rights of citizens.
