The federal government has assured Nigerians that no official found culpable in the deaths of suspected illegal miners in custody in Niger State will be shielded from justice.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, spoke on Friday while conveying the federal government’s
condolences to Umaru Bago, Governor of Niger State, and the families of those
who died in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable.
At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation,” he
said.
“The Government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts
are established and that justice is served.”
Idris said the federal government prioritises the protection
of the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of every Nigerian as a solemn
responsibility.
He said the circumstances surrounding the deaths required a
thorough, transparent and impartial investigation.
The minister noted that the government had already taken
immediate steps to establish what happened, including the suspension of Suberu
Aniviye, NSCDC commandant in Niger state, by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of
interior.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of
Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views
this matter,” Idris said.
“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 federal government remained committed to
combating illegal mining and other unlawful activities that threaten national
security, economic resources and the environment.
He, however, noted that all enforcement operations must be
conducted within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
The minister appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger
state, urging residents and other concerned parties to allow the investigation
to proceed without interference.
He 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 full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
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