Tinubu Breaks Silence As 37 Suspected Miners D!e In NSCDC Custody, Orders Investigation

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the President issued the directive on Friday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following reports surrounding the deaths of the detainees.

Tinubu directed that the investigation should examine every aspect of the incident, including the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of the suspects when they were taken into custody, the conditions in which they were detained, the number of people held at the facility, the medical attention provided to them and the events leading to their deaths.

The President also instructed the Ministry of Interior and the leadership of the NSCDC to cooperate fully with the investigative authorities and ensure that the process is not obstructed.

Tinubu said the government would continue its efforts to tackle illegal mining and other criminal activities but stressed that security and enforcement operations must be carried out within the law and with respect for the rights and dignity of people in custody.

He maintained that being suspected of illegal mining did not deprive the detainees of their right to life and humane treatment while in government custody.

The President further directed that if the investigation establishes that any public official contributed to the deaths through misconduct, abuse or negligence, such an individual should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He also stressed that administrative measures such as suspension should not replace criminal prosecution where evidence establishes that criminal responsibility may have occurred.

The directive comes as authorities in Niger State continue to investigate the deaths. The NSCDC had said the actual cause of death had not been conclusively established, while the state government has ordered further investigations and autopsies.

Meanwhile, Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm among affected communities. He assured them that the Federal Government would pursue the facts surrounding the incident and take appropriate action based on credible evidence.

The President emphasised that while the government has a responsibility to enforce laws against illegal activities, such enforcement must itself be conducted within the law and with full regard for human life.