The Federal Government has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of persons arrested during an enforcement operation against suspected illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed the Federal Government’s condolences to the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, the government and people of the state, traditional leaders and residents of Wushishi, particularly the families of those who lost their lives.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris said the Federal Government considered the protection of the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of Nigerians a solemn responsibility.
He said the circumstances surrounding the deaths required a “thorough, transparent and impartial investigation” to establish what happened.
According to him, the government had already taken immediate steps towards determining the facts of the incident.
He noted that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had ordered the suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and directed a full investigation into the matter.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter.
“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 minister stressed that although the Federal Government remained committed to combating illegal mining and other unlawful activities that threaten national security, economic resources and the environment, enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation.
“The Government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts are established and that justice is served,” he said.
Idris appealed for calm in Wushishi and other parts of Niger State, urging residents and all 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 was committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The minister prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for strength and fortitude for their families, the Wushishi community and the people and government of Niger State.
