Nigerian Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has inaugurated a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. The committee's primary responsibility is to uncover the truth behind the incident and ensure that justice prevails. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the Federal Government is determined to unravel the truth and that the committee's investigation should be transparent, independent, and without interference.
The committee, led by retired Deputy Director-General of the Directorate of State Services (DSS) Jonathan Kure, has been mandated to identify the deceased, establish the immediate and remote causes of their deaths, and determine the circumstances surrounding their arrest. The committee is also expected to examine the legality and conditions of detention, compliance with relevant laws and human rights standards, and allegations of torture, denial of medical care, and negligence or misconduct.
Tunji-Ojo noted that the federal government owes Nigerians the truth and that the committee's investigation is crucial in establishing the facts independently. He emphasized that no officer, regardless of their position, will be shielded if found culpable. The minister also warned that anyone attempting to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses, or obstruct the investigation will face the full weight of the law.
The committee has been given two weeks to complete its assignment, although an extension may be considered if necessary to ensure a thorough investigation. Tunji-Ojo described the deaths as deeply disturbing and stressed that government institutions should remain places of safety, confidence, and security, rather than sites of preventable deaths. He also revealed that two immediate measures have been taken, including the suspension of the officers involved and the state commandant of the corps.
The committee members include Prof. Isa Chiroma (SAN), a former Director-General of the Nigeria Law School, as Secretary, and Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Hosea Karma. Other members are the former Chief Medical Director of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital and Professor of Histopathology, Olayinka Buhari, and the National Secretary, Miners Association of Nigeria, Liman Sulaiman. Human rights activist and Lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, Public Affairs Analyst, Dr George Agbakahi, Journalist Zainab Okino, and two representatives from the state are also part of the committee.
In response to the minister's charge, committee Chairman Jonathan Kure assured that members will approach the investigation with open minds, devoid of sentiments, media pressure, or preconceived conclusions. Kure said the committee will give justice where it is required and establish the facts, returning with a report that reflects its findings. He emphasized that the committee's work will be conducted in a manner capable of restoring public confidence while reassuring Nigerians that the country remains committed to justice.
The investigation is a result of President Bola Tinubu's directive for a comprehensive and transparent probe into the incident. Tunji-Ojo appreciated the President for the directive and prayed for wisdom, strength, and courage for the committee members to conduct the assignment objectively and in the interest of Nigeria and humanity.
Key points
- The Nigerian government has set up a 10-member committee to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State.
- The committee has been mandated to uncover the truth behind the incident and ensure that justice prevails.
- The investigation is expected to be completed within two weeks, although an extension may be considered if necessary.
