Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has expressed disappointment over the handling of the case of 37 illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). He described the NSCDC officials' actions as "unprofessional". Bago made these remarks when he received officials of the state Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the Government House in Minna. The CAN officials paid a sympathy visit to the governor following the tragic incident.
The incident occurred while the miners were in NSCDC custody. Bago stated that the death of the artisanal miners could have been avoided if the NSCDC officials had handled the situation professionally. He assured that the government would investigate the matter to its logical conclusion. The governor prayed for God's consolation for the families of the deceased miners. He emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups and religions in the state.
Bago's administration has pledged to treat all residents equally, regardless of their background. He called for continued peaceful coexistence, stating that Niger State is their home. The governor advised religious leaders to use their pulpits to discourage parents from allowing their children to engage in artisanal mining. Instead, he encouraged them to enroll their children in schools, highlighting that basic education is free in the state.
Earlier, the state CAN Chairman, represented by his deputy, Reverend Joshua Markus Rikoto, condemned the death of the artisanal miners. He commiserated with the bereaved families, the government, and the people of the state over the disaster. Rikoto commended the state government for setting up a committee to investigate the matter. He advised that the report of the committee should be implemented to assure the public that the government had no hand in the incident.
The NSCDC officials' actions have been widely criticized. Bago's comments reflect the government's concerns over the handling of the situation. The governor's call for professionalism in the handling of such cases is timely. The incident has raised questions about the treatment of suspects in custody.
The state government has taken steps to address the issue. A committee was set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The governor's administration is committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Bago's pledge to investigate the matter to its logical conclusion is a reassuring step towards justice for the victims and their families.
The incident has highlighted the need for collaboration between the government and various stakeholders to address the issue of artisanal mining. Bago's advice to religious leaders to discourage parents from allowing their children to engage in artisanal mining is a step in the right direction. The government's efforts to promote education and discourage such practices are crucial in preventing similar incidents in the future.
Key points
- Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago criticizes NSCDC officials' handling of 37 illegal miners' deaths in custody as "unprofessional".
