Niger State Gov. Mohammed Bago says some people who survived the recent deaths involving suspected illegal miners in the state have been discharged from hospital and reunited with their families.
Bago said those discharged had given statements to the police or Department of State Services and undergone medical tests before being released.
He said a few others remain hospitalized and expressed hope that they would be reunited with their families this week after receiving treatment for dehydration and malnutrition.
Bago also announced that a general prayer for those who died will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Central Mosque in Minna.
He said the families of the deceased would gather at the mosque in memory of their loved ones.
According to the governor, the state government could not do much for the families immediately because of the sentiments and tensions that followed the incident, but added that work had since begun.
He said the government would await details of the compensation to be provided to the deceased and their families.
Bago also reiterated his call for a regime of responsible mining in Niger State, saying mining activities must be properly regulated.
He said responsible mining should include age restrictions to prevent children from engaging in mining activities, as well as regulation of those who buy minerals from miners.
The governor also called for state governments to be given appropriate jurisdiction over mining activities within their territories.
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