President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) following enforcement operations around Lt.General Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna, Niger State.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President, information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga says the life of every Nigerian matters and that no citizen should lose his life while in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
The President expressed deep concern over the reported deaths, describing the development as a grave matter that requires urgent investigation and accountability.
“While the Federal Government would continue to combat illegal mining and other criminal activities across the country, enforcement operations must be conducted strictly within the law and with full respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of every person in custody.
The statement further notes that the fact that these individuals were suspected of illegal mining does not in any way remove their right to life, dignity and humane treatment while in government custody, adding that Government will not tolerate mass deaths arising from official negligence, dereliction of duty or failure by public officials to protect the lives placed under their care.
“Where the investigation establishes that any official, through action, abuse or negligence, contributed to these deaths, such an officer must be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. There must be accountability,” the President said.
President Tinubu directed the relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation is comprehensive, transparent and unhindered, covering the circumstances of the arrests, the co
NTA News
