Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago has vowed to ensure justice for the families of 37 miners who died in NSCDC custody. He made this statement during a courtesy visit by the probe panel in Minna. Bago urged the commission to investigate the circumstances surrounding the miners' arrest, detention, and deaths. He also requested that they examine the responsibility and accountability of officers involved.
The Chairman of the committee, Jonathan Kure, a retired deputy director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS), has assured the public of the committee's independence and impartiality. He stated that the committee's medical team began work immediately after inauguration to gather evidence. The committee commenced its sitting at the Teachers' Professional Institute in Minna, and members of the public were invited to attend and submit memoranda.
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Niger State have issued a joint position paper urging political parties and actors to focus on accountability, human rights, and justice for the victims and their families. The CSOs, including the Open Government Partnership Non-State Actors Niger State and the Resource Justice Network Niger State Chapter, warned against politicizing the tragedy.
The CSOs noted that the deaths have caused intense public grief and tension across the state. They argued that poverty, hunger, and limited livelihood opportunities are factors pushing young people into illegal mining. The groups called for wider action on artisanal mining beyond the immediate investigation.
Governor Bago promised the state government's support for the committee's success, emphasizing that the world is watching their actions. He urged the committee to discharge its duty with sincerity and fear of God to ensure justice for the victims' families.
The probe panel's investigation will cover the legality of the miners' custody, their treatment while in detention, and medical forensic investigation and evidence. The committee's findings and recommendations will aim to unravel what went wrong and hold those responsible accountable.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, and the CSOs are pushing for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims. The committee's work is crucial in addressing the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
Key points
- Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago vows to ensure justice for the families of 37 miners who died in NSCDC custody.
- Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) urge political parties and actors to focus on accountability, human rights, and justice for the victims and their families.
- The probe panel's investigation will cover the legality of the miners' custody, their treatment while in detention, and medical forensic investigation and evidence.
