A Nigerian rights group, the Alliance for Credible Governance (ACG), has expressed concerns over the mysterious death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. The group described the suspension of senior NSCDC officials as a "sheer cover-up" and questioned its legitimacy.
The ACG has urged the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to resign immediately, allowing the Presidency to take over the investigation into the incident. The group believes the minister's swift conclusion that the suspended NSCDC officers were complicit in the tragedy raises more questions.
According to the ACG, the Interior Minister's decision to blame NSCDC officials suggests that he may have prior knowledge of the Corps' activities in the state, which could indicate a larger cover-up. The group argues that the minister's involvement may be an attempt to divert attention from the real issues surrounding the incident.
The ACG has called for a thorough investigation into the allegations of poisoning or chloroforming of the miners, as well as a probe into the statement by Niger State Governor Muhammed Bago that blood was found on the victims. These claims, the group believes, warrant a high-stakes investigation.
The group also raised concerns about the safety of detainees in NSCDC custody, citing the allegations as a serious issue that requires attention from the relevant authorities. The ACG emphasized that allegations involving persons in the custody of a government security agency should be treated with seriousness and attract appropriate action.
The ACG has demanded accountability over the alleged incident, urging the authorities to take necessary steps in response to the deaths of the miners. The group believes that the Interior Minister's position has become untenable and that he should resign or be removed from office.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage, with many Nigerians calling for a thorough investigation and accountability. The ACG's demands have added to the growing pressure on the government to take decisive action in response to the tragic event.
Key points
- The Alliance for Credible Governance (ACG) has called for the resignation of Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo over the alleged cover-up of the deaths of 37 suspected miners in NSCDC custody.
- The group has urged a thorough investigation into the allegations of poisoning or chloroforming of the miners and the statement by Niger State Governor Muhammed Bago that blood was found on the victims.
- The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of detainees in NSCDC custody and the need for accountability and action from the relevant authorities.
