The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation will be conducted into the deaths of persons arrested during enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining activities in Niger State.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance in a statement on Friday, expressing deep sorrow over the tragic incident in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state.
The development follows the suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Idris said the Federal Government had taken immediate steps to establish the facts, stressing that the protection of the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of every Nigerian remained a solemn responsibility of the government.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter. The investigation will be allowed to establish exactly what happened, and the Government assures Nigerians that appropriate action will be taken based on its findings,” Idris said.
The minister extended the condolences of the Federal Government to the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, the government and people of the state, traditional leaders and residents of Wushishi, as well as the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.
He stressed that while the government remained committed to combating illegal mining and other unlawful activities threatening national security, economic resources and the environment, enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
Idris further assured Nigerians that anyone found culpable would not be shielded, while cautioning against prejudging the outcome of the investigation.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation. The Government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts are established and that justice is served.”
He appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger State, urging residents and all concerned parties to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
The minister assured the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State that the Federal Government shared in their grief and remained committed to establishing the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for Almighty Allah to grant their families, the Wushishi community and the government and people of Niger State the strength to bear the loss.
Credit to our Media Partner DailyTrust .
