FG PROBES DEATHS OF 37 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL MINERS IN NSCDC CUSTODY
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has deployed a team of experts to Niger State to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Minna.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Faruk Yabo, who led the delegation to the state, said the team would conduct a thorough investigation and produce a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Yabo described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, stressing that mining activities should contribute to national development and not result in loss of lives.
He conveyed the condolences of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development and the ministry to Governor Umaru Bago, the state government and the families of the victims.
“I extend the deepest condolences of the minister and ministry to the governor, his cabinet and the people, especially the families of the victims of this highly tragic incident,” he said.
The permanent secretary assured mining workers that the ministry would take measures to prevent a recurrence, emphasising strict compliance with established mining procedures and safety standards.
Receiving the delegation, Governor Bago thanked the ministry for intervening in the matter, saying it was too early to determine the exact cause of the deaths.
According to the governor, preliminary information available to the state government suggested that the victims may have died from suffocation or exposure to poisonous substances.
Bago said the federal government’s investigation would complement the committee of inquiry already established by the state government to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
He also announced the suspension of all mining activities across Niger State pending the conclusion of the investigations.
The governor urged the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to collaborate with the state government to strengthen enforcement and promote responsible mining practices across the state.
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