Investigative Panel Promises Fair Inquiry into Deaths of 37 Miners in Niger State

A 10-member committee has been formed by the Federal Government to investigate the deaths of 37 artisanal miners in Niger State. The miners died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The committee visited Niger State Governor Umaru Bago to discuss their investigation.

Chairman of the committee, Jonathan Kure, who is a retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, assured the families of the deceased that the investigation would be fair and thorough. He stated that the committee was tasked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to uncover the details surrounding the miners’ deaths.

Kure mentioned that a medical team had already started their work to gather important evidence. This early action is seen as crucial to understanding the circumstances of the deaths. He emphasized that the committee would be independent and would aim to determine what went wrong and who might be responsible.

He also expressed a commitment to treating anyone who is found not involved in the incident fairly. Kure acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, noting that it is a concern for both Niger State and the entire country.

In response, Governor Umaru Bago thanked the committee for their visit and promised the full support of the Niger State Government. He expressed confidence that the committee, made up of professionals from various fields, would uncover the truth about the miners’ deaths.