No one will be shielded over deaths of 37 miners in Niger state - FG

The federal government has assured Nigerians that no official found culpable in the deaths of suspected illegal miners in custody in Niger State will be shielded from justice.

Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, spoke on Friday while conveying the federal government’s condolences to Umaru Bago, Governor of Niger State, and the families of those who died in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis.

“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation,” he said.

“The Government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts are established and that justice is served.”

Idris said the federal government prioritises the protection of the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of every Nigerian as a solemn responsibility.

He said the circumstances surrounding the deaths required a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation.

The minister noted that the government had already taken immediate steps to establish what happened, including the suspension of Suberu Aniviye, NSCDC commandant in Niger state, by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of interior.

“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter,” Idris said.

“The investigation will be allowed to establish exactly what happened, and the Government assures Nigerians that appropriate action will be taken based on its findings.”

Idris said the federal government remained committed to combating illegal mining and other unlawful activities that threaten national security, economic resources and the environment.

He, however, noted that all enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.

The minister appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger state, urging residents and other concerned parties to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.

He assured the families of the deceased and the people of Niger state that the federal government shared in their grief and remained committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.