The Federal Government of Nigeria has set up a 10-man Independent Investigative Committee to probe the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. The committee, inaugurated in Abuja, is chaired by Jonathan Kure, the Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and has a two-week timeline to complete its investigation. The panel's mandate includes establishing the identities of the deceased and documenting the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, warned the NSCDC and other stakeholders against tampering with material evidence linked to the deaths, emphasizing that anyone found culpable would face the law. He reiterated the administration's commitment to human rights and noted that the suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC and other duty officers was a step towards accountability. The minister directed the NSCDC leadership to cooperate with the committee and make available all reports and material evidence.
The committee's terms of reference include determining the exact cause(s) of death through medical and forensic examinations, ascertaining whether negligence, misconduct, or complicity occurred, and recommending disciplinary actions and compensation where applicable. The panel also comprises Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, SAN, as secretary, AIG Hosea Karma (rtd), and Prof. Olayinka Buhari, among others. The chairman, Jonathan Kure, accepted the task, pledging that the committee would execute its mandate with impartiality.
The incident occurred on September 17, and the investigation is being conducted in line with President Bola Tinubu's directive to ensure a comprehensive, transparent, and unhindered probe. The Niger State governorship candidate of the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), Dr. Mohammed Kpautagi, described the miners' fate as unfortunate and said it had raised the consciousness of leaders about the importance of rudimentary life-saving skills in emergencies.
Dr. Kpautagi, who is organizing a seven-day Fidau prayer for the deceased miners, said he would introduce health talks and preliminary emergency response strategies if elected. The Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize life-saving skills and emergency response. The incident has sparked concerns about the treatment of suspects in custody and the need for accountability.
The Federal Government's decision to set up an independent investigative committee is seen as a step towards addressing concerns about the incident and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The committee's findings and recommendations are expected to be made public after its two-week investigation. The incident has also raised questions about the role of the NSCDC in enforcing mining regulations and the need for improved oversight.
The investigation into the deaths of the 37 suspected illegal miners is ongoing, and the Federal Government has assured the public that it will take a comprehensive and transparent approach to uncovering the truth. The committee's work is expected to provide closure for the families of the deceased and help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key points
- The Federal Government has inaugurated a 10-man Independent Investigative Committee to probe the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody.
- The committee has a two-week timeline to complete its investigation and make recommendations.
- The incident has sparked concerns about the treatment of suspects in custody and the need for accountability.
