The Save Nigeria Movement (SNM), a national civil society organisation, has expressed commendation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Audi Abubakar. This commendation stems from their prompt actions following the tragic deaths of 37 children who were arrested from mining sites in Minna, Niger State.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja by its National Coordinator, Joseph Uyeh, the SNM extended heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased children and the Niger State Government. The group acknowledged the tragic and painful loss that has shaken the nation's conscience. They emphasised that while they do not condone illegal mining activities, allegations of wrongdoing should not deprive any Nigerian of their constitutional rights to life, dignity, and the presumption of innocence.
The SNM praised President Tinubu for ordering a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. This directive, the group noted, demonstrates the Federal Government's commitment to accountability and the protection of citizens' lives. Furthermore, they lauded the Minister of Interior for promptly setting up and inaugurating a 10-member independent investigative committee. The committee aims to examine the circumstances leading to the tragedy to prevent future occurrences.
The organisation also commended the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Audi Abubakar, for the measures taken against officers allegedly involved in the incident. The reported suspension and arrest of these officers underscore the importance of institutional accountability as investigations into the incident continue. This move by the NSCDC has been seen as a step towards ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
However, the SNM appealed to political actors, civil society organisations, and other interest groups to refrain from politicising the tragedy. They urged these groups not to use the incident to inflame political tensions or incite public unrest. Instead, they called for calm, patience, and respect for due process, emphasising that the independent investigative process should be allowed to run its course.
The group highlighted that the findings of the investigative committee will be critical in establishing the facts surrounding the incident. These findings will also determine the appropriate measures to be taken. The SNM urged all relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation remains transparent and that any individual found culpable is held accountable.
Finally, the SNM expressed confidence that justice will be served, urging Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding as the investigation proceeds. They emphasised the importance of allowing the investigative process to unfold without interference, ensuring that the truth is uncovered and that those responsible are brought to justice.
Key points
- The Save Nigeria Movement commends President Tinubu, Interior Minister, and NSCDC for their swift responses to the Minna custodial tragedy.
- An independent investigative committee has been set up to examine the circumstances leading to the tragic deaths of 37 children in Minna, Niger State.
- The SNM urges calm, patience, and respect for due process, emphasising the importance of a transparent investigation.
