Tinubu Orders Probe Into Deaths Of Suspected Illegal Miners In NSCDC Custody

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, in Minna, Niger State.

The President’s directive follows enforcement operations around Lt. General Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate in Minna.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the reported deaths, describing it as a grave matter that requires urgent investigation and accountability.

“The life of every Nigerian matters and no citizen should lose his life while in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty,” the President said.

Tinubu stressed that while the Federal Government will continue to combat illegal mining and other criminal activities, enforcement operations must be conducted strictly within the law and with full respect for dignity and fundamental rights.

“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. Government will not tolerate mass deaths arising from official negligence, dereliction of duty or failure by public officials to protect lives placed under their care,” he stated.

The President directed that where the investigation establishes that any official, through action, abuse or negligence contributed to the deaths, such officer must be arrested and prosecuted.

“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,” Tinubu said.

He further directed relevant authorities to ensure the investigation is comprehensive, transparent and covers the circumstances of the arrests and custody.