Tinubu Orders Investigation Into Deaths of Suspected Illegal Miners in Niger

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps following enforcement operations in Minna, Niger State.

The President said the life of every Nigerian matters and no citizen should die in government custody because of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.

Tinubu expressed concern over the reported deaths and described the incident as a grave matter requiring urgent investigation and accountability.

He said the Federal Government would continue to combat illegal mining and other criminal activities, but stressed that enforcement operations must be carried out within the law and with respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of people in custody.

The President directed investigators to examine the circumstances surrounding the arrests, the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, the conditions in which they were held, the number of people detained, the medical attention provided and the events leading to their deaths.

Tinubu also said any official whose actions, abuse or negligence are found to have contributed to the deaths should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He stressed that the suspension of officers is only an administrative measure and should not replace a proper determination of criminal responsibility where evidence warrants prosecution.

The President directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with relevant investigative authorities and ensure that no officer interferes with the process or frustrates efforts to establish the truth.

Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm among affected families and communities.

He said the government would pursue the truth and take appropriate action based on credible evidence, adding that the pursuit of one form of illegality must not create another.

“The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” the President said.