Doctor Mohammed Kpautagi, the African Democratic Congress candidate for the Niger State gubernatorial election, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the death of 37 artisan miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State. Kpautagi described the incident as one of the darkest moments in the history of Niger State. He received the news with a heavy heart and mourned the loss of the young lives.
Kpautagi attributed the tragic incident to gross negligence and failure of duty, emphasizing that no citizen should lose their life in a government detention facility intended for security and reform. He assured that, if elected as governor, he would devote 24 hours a day to looking out for the masses. Kpautagi counseled the current administration to take the issue of security and human lives seriously, stressing that enough of the killings in Niger State have occurred.
The African Democratic Congress gubernatorial flagbearer stated that large parts of Niger State have been left at the mercy of criminals due to leadership failure. He noted that Zones B and C senatorial districts are under bandit control, with daily killings and kidnappings occurring in various areas. Many residents have been forced into IDP camps, and youths have taken to artisanal mining for survival due to the impossibility of farming.
Kpautagi remarked that the NSCDC tragedy is a symptom of a larger systemic failure where human life has lost its value. He acknowledged the three-day mourning declared by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. However, Kpautagi stated that the suspension of the State Commandant of the NSCDC is not enough remedial action, stressing that a full independent investigation, public disclosure of findings, and prosecution of culpable officers are needed.
According to Kpautagi, Niger State needs a government that truly values human life. Under an ADC-led administration, security, youth empowerment, and responsible mining will be given topmost priority. He prayed that such a tragedy never befalls Niger State again and implored Allah to forgive the deceased and grant them Aljannatul Firdaus.
The incident has reinforced calls for state governors to stop frequenting Abuja for political reasons and concentrate on serving their people. Kpautagi emphasized that the tragic incident was an avoidable loss and called for adequate compensation for the affected families.
The African Democratic Congress candidate concluded by assuring that his administration would prioritize the welfare and security of Niger State residents. He urged the current administration to take immediate action to address the security challenges in the state and ensure that those responsible for the miners' death are brought to justice.
Key points
- Doctor Mohammed Kpautagi calls for governor accountability and an independent investigation into the death of 37 artisan miners in NSCDC custody.
- Kpautagi attributes the tragic incident to gross negligence and failure of duty.
- The African Democratic Congress candidate prioritizes security, youth empowerment, and responsible mining in his gubernatorial agenda.
