NSCDC appoints new Niger commandant after miners die in custody

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed Abdulhamid Kabara as the new commandant of its Niger State Command following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in custody.

Kabara replaces Suberu Aniviye, who was suspended as Niger NSCDC commandant after the 37 suspects died in Minna, the state capital, on Thursday.

Abubakar Muti, NSCDC spokesperson in Niger State, announced in a statement on Saturday that Kabara formally assumed office and took over the command on Friday, September 18.

The Federal Government had ordered Aniviye’s immediate suspension following the deaths.

“The assumption of office comes at a particularly sensitive period for the Command, following the unfortunate deaths of some persons arrested in connection with suspected illegal mining activities in the State,” the statement reads.

Muti said Kabara expressed “deep sadness over the loss of lives and extended his heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased and everyone affected by the unfortunate incident”.

The new commandant said the corps remained committed to its statutory responsibilities, including arrests, investigations, enforcement and the fight against illegal mining, but stressed that the protection of human life must remain a priority.

“At a moment like this, beyond arrests, investigations, enforcement and the fight against illegal mining, we must remember one fundamental truth: every human life matters,” he said.

“The loss of any human life is painful, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families who are mourning at this difficult time.”

Kabara also emphasised that law enforcement responsibilities must be balanced with the need to protect people in custody.

He said the responsibility of safeguarding society and enforcing the law must go hand in hand with upholding the dignity, safety and welfare of persons in custody.

The deployment comes as authorities face scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody.

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