Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has spoken out about the challenges he faces in addressing the mining crisis in the state, citing limited control over federal security agencies and detention facilities. In an interview on Channels Television's Sunday Politics, Bago expressed frustration over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody, revealing that the state government was not informed before the arrests and detentions took place. The incident occurred during anti-illegal mining operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of the state.
According to Governor Bago, the security agencies involved in the arrests, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and police, are under federal control, limiting the state's ability to intervene directly. He stated that he has little control over federal detention facilities, saying "I am just chief security of the state by mouth." Bago emphasized that he cannot take responsibility for what he cannot control, adding "I cannot take an oath for what I cannot control." This highlights the challenges faced by state governments in addressing security issues.
The incident involved the detention of 67 artisanal and suspected illegal miners, with 37 later dying in custody. The exact cause of death remains under investigation, with factors such as overcrowding and possible exposure to hazardous substances being examined. Governor Bago described the scene after the deaths, stating that he saw "a lot of corpses on the floor" and claimed that some of those who died were not miners. He also revealed that the location where the arrests took place was not a licensed mining site but a housing estate.
The deaths have triggered multiple investigations, including the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and 20 other officers pending the outcome of an independent inquiry. The Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has established a 10-member committee to examine the arrests, detention, identities of the deceased, and circumstances surrounding their deaths. This move aims to uncover the truth behind the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
Beyond the deaths in custody, Governor Bago highlighted the wider challenges posed by the mining crisis in the state. He noted that the crisis has led to the movement of residents away from farming and the increasing involvement of children in artisanal mining. Bago called for stronger federal action, including an executive order banning mining in locations where the activity has become particularly problematic.
Governor Bago emphasized that the state's ability to address the problem is constrained without stronger intervention from federal authorities responsible for mining regulation and security agencies operating in the state. He stressed that decisive action is needed to address the issue, stating that "these people, because they have tasted the mining money, they cannot leave that side." The governor's comments underscore the need for a collaborative approach to addressing the mining crisis.
The mining crisis in Niger State has sparked concerns about the involvement of children in artisanal mining and the need for stronger regulations. Governor Bago's comments have reignited the debate on the issue, with many calling for a ban on mining in troubled locations. The incident has also raised questions about the role of federal security agencies in addressing security challenges in the state and the need for greater collaboration between state and federal authorities.
Key points
- Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has limited control over federal detention facilities and security agencies.
- The mining crisis in Niger State has led to the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody.
- Governor Bago is calling for stronger federal action, including an executive order banning mining in locations where the activity has become particularly problematic.
