Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, visited Minna, Niger State, on Tuesday to condole with the Emir of Minna, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Farouk Bahago, and families of the 37 suspected artisanal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). During his visit, Atiku announced a donation of ₦20 million to support those who lost loved ones in the tragedy. The donation was made to alleviate the suffering of the families affected by the incident.
Atiku described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the vulnerability of young Nigerians struggling to survive amid severe economic pressures. He said it was particularly harrowing listening to the account of one of the survivors, who narrated the deplorable conditions in the detention facility. According to the survivor, over 68 miners were crammed into a small detention facility, leading to desperate conditions, including drinking one another's urine to stay hydrated.
The former Vice President expressed concern that many young Nigerians are being driven into hazardous and poorly regulated occupations due to poverty, unemployment, and the cost-of-living crisis. He emphasized that the government must confront the deeper questions of poverty, unemployment, and the cost-of-living crisis to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. Atiku also stressed that the deaths of the 37 miners demand truth, justice, and accountability.
Atiku urged the Tinubu administration to reflect on the human consequences of economic policies that have placed enormous pressure on households and diminished opportunities for millions of young Nigerians. He stated that economic reform must ultimately be measured by its impact on the lives of ordinary people. If life becomes progressively more difficult for families, workers, and young people, then the government has a responsibility to reconsider its choices.
The former Vice President reiterated his commitment to policies designed to reduce the cost of living if elected president. He mentioned a targeted production subsidy for petroleum products refined in Nigeria, rather than a return to an open-ended subsidy on imported fuel. This policy aims to support domestic refining, eliminate waste, and ensure that government support translates directly into lower prices for consumers.
Atiku emphasized that Nigeria's young people deserve classrooms, skills, jobs, and opportunities that allow them to fulfil their potential, rather than an economy that leaves survival increasingly dependent on dangerous and uncertain livelihoods. He stated that the purpose of government is not merely to announce reforms but to make life better for the people. Atiku's donation and comments highlight the need for government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens.
The incident has raised concerns about the treatment of suspects in detention facilities and the need for government to ensure that human rights are respected. Atiku's visit and donation demonstrate the need for leaders to take responsibility for the welfare of their citizens, particularly the most vulnerable. The incident has also sparked calls for greater accountability and transparency in the management of detention facilities.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar donates N20m to families of 37 suspected artisanal miners who died in NSCDC custody.
- The former Vice President expressed concern about the vulnerability of young Nigerians struggling to survive amid severe economic pressures.
- Atiku reiterated his commitment to policies designed to reduce the cost of living if elected president.
