Nigeria is in mourning following the tragic death of 33 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. In a demonstration of grief and institutional remorse, Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Abubakar Audi, has ordered that NSCDC flags be flown at half-mast across all formations for three days, starting from Sunday, September 20. This gesture signifies a collective mourning and an unwavering resolve to purge the system of bad eggs.
The incident has led to the suspension of 24 NSCDC personnel, who are currently held in custody and undergoing rigorous interrogation and administrative disciplinary action. According to the Corps Public Relations Officer, ACC Babawale Afolabi, the officers and men linked to the gross misconduct have been taken into protective custody at the National Headquarters, Abuja. They will be made available for the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigation panels for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The NSCDC has assured that due process, transparency, and accountability will be strictly followed in the investigation of the suspended personnel. Professor Audi emphasized that the Corps does not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness, or any action that undermines the fundamental rights of citizens or the sacred trust reposed in them. The leadership of the NSCDC remains unwavering in its commitment to transparency, human rights protection, and professional ethics.
The joint operation conducted by the NSCDC and the Commandant General's Special Investigation Squad (SIS) led to the identification of the 24 personnel linked to the incident. They include Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye, DCC Ajayi Philips, DCC John Agrahau Chagwa, and 20 others. The names of the officers were disclosed by the Corps Public Relations Officer, who also stated that the investigation is ongoing.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many Nigerians expressing outrage and sadness over the tragic event. The NSCDC has pledged to keep the public abreast of the outcome of the investigation, assuring that the Corps will take decisive action to address the issue. The government has also been urged to take concrete steps to address the problem of illegal mining in the country.
The Niger State Government has been grappling with the issue of illegal mining, with Governor Bago calling for a mining ban in troubled locations after 37 deaths. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of children, with reports of children abandoning school to engage in mining activities. The government has been urged to take urgent action to address the issue and prevent further tragedies.
The NSCDC has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in the investigation of the incident. The Corps has assured that it will work closely with other agencies to ensure that those responsible for the tragedy are brought to justice. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation in addressing the issue of illegal mining in Nigeria.
Key points
- NSCDC flags flown at half-mast in mourning for 33 suspected illegal miners
- 24 NSCDC personnel suspended and in custody for investigation
- NSCDC commits to transparency and accountability in investigation
