President Tinubu

Author: Gist Correspondent

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.

Tinubu, in a statement, said the deaths were a grave matter that required urgent and thorough investigation, stressing that the life of every Nigerian matters.

He said no citizen should die in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.

The President said the Federal Government would continue to combat illegal mining and other criminal activities across the country, but insisted that such operations must be conducted within the law and with full respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of persons taken into custody.

According to him, suspicion of illegal mining does not remove the detainees' right to life, dignity and humane treatment.

Tinubu directed that the investigation establish the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, the conditions under which they were held, the number of persons detained at the facility, the medical attention provided and the events leading to their deaths.

He warned that any official found to have contributed to the deaths through abuse, negligence or other actions must be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The President noted that the suspension of officers was only an administrative measure and could not replace a proper determination of criminal responsibility where evidence warrants prosecution.

He directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with all relevant investigative authorities, warning officers against interfering with or frustrating the investigation.

Tinubu also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm among the affected families and communities.

He said the 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. Government must enforce the law firmly, but government itself must obey the law,” the President said.

“The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable.”