Tinubu Orders Full Investigation into Deaths of Suspected Illegal Miners in NSCDC Custody

Tinubu Orders Full Investigation into Deaths of Suspected Illegal Miners in NSCDC Custody

President Bola Ahmed 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 the Lt. Gen. Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna, Niger State.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the life of every Nigerian matters and that no citizen should die in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.

Tinubu described the reported deaths as a grave matter requiring urgent investigation and accountability.

He said while the Federal Government would continue its fight against illegal mining and other criminal activities, enforcement operations must be carried out within the law and with full respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of persons in custody.

“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,” the President said.

He warned that the government would not tolerate mass deaths arising from official negligence, dereliction of duty or failure by public officials to protect persons under their care.

Tinubu directed that any official found, through the investigation, to have contributed to the deaths through action, abuse or negligence must be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The President further directed the relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation is comprehensive, transparent and unhindered.

The investigation is expected to cover the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of the detainees upon arrival in custody, the conditions under which they were detained, the number of persons held at the facility, the medical attention provided to them and the events leading to their deaths.

“The suspension of officers is only an administrative step and must not substitute for a proper determination of criminal responsibility where the evidence warrants prosecution,” Tinubu said.

He directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with all relevant investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with or frustrates the investigation.

The President expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.

He also appealed for calm among the affected families and communities, assuring them that the Federal Government would pursue the truth and take appropriate action based on credible evidence.

“We must never allow the pursuit of one form of illegality to create another. The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” he said.

Tinubu Orders Full Investigation into Deaths of Suspected Illegal Miners in NSCDC Custody